Château de Blandy-les-Tours, a medieval monument in a charming Seine-et-Marne village

Located in the picturesque village of Blandy-les-Tours in Seine-et-Marne (77), the château fortress of Blandy-les-Tours is a must-see medieval monument. Recently renovated, the château offers a fascinating plunge into medieval history, with newly furnished rooms. It is open to visitors all year round to discover its treasures and secrets.

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As early as the 6th century - and according to on-site archaeological digs - the Blandy territory was occupied, even though the castle had not yet been built. It wasn't until the 13th century, in 1220, that Viscounts Guillaume II and Adam III de Melun organized the construction of the first enclosure around the manor of Blandy.

Over the centuries, the manor house became a veritable fortified castle, with four imposing towers and a moat encircling the entire fortress. During the Hundred Years' War, the castle became a place of defense and residence, before becoming a residential castle in the 16th and 17th centuries. Eventually abandoned and derelict, Château de Blandy fell into ruin in the 19th century, when the Conseil départemental de Seine-et-Marne decided to buy it back in 1992. Major renovation work followed, enabling the site to be reopened in 2007 and classified as a Historic Monument as early as 1889. Thanks to meticulous renovation, this monument has been restored to its former glory and is now open to the public.

The tour takes in the imposing towers and restored walls, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Each tower has its own history, from the massive keep to the watchtower. Renovations have brought the interior rooms back to life, with furniture carefully chosen to reflect daily life in the Middle Ages. These include the guard room, the grand reception hall and even a restored chapel. Each of these rooms is adorned with period pieces, from tapestries to armor, illustrating the rich history of the site.

One of the most captivating experiences is undoubtedly the climb to the top of the keep. A narrow spiral staircase leads to a panoramic view of Blandy-les-Tours and the surrounding area. This unobstructed view gives an insight into the castle's strategic position in medieval times.

A covered walkway around the castle, a pretty vegetable garden below and a breathtaking view of the village, which has kept its soul, is what awaits you.

The Château de Blandy-les-Tours is more than just a witness to the past. It is now a living place, hosting numerous cultural events throughout the year. Temporary exhibitions, concerts, a sound and light show and historical re-enactments bring the site to life, making each visit unique and enriching. Visitors can also enjoy medieval shows, children's workshops and even themed dinners that immerse participants in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages.

The château's renovation also included the creation of interactive educational trails. Explanatory panels, models and interactive terminals are scattered throughout the castle, offering an educational experience for young and old alike. Visitors can follow the castle's evolution through the centuries, understand medieval construction techniques and discover the legends surrounding this emblematic site. You can also have fun taking photos in the various dedicated installations. Have you always wanted to look like a castellan? Now's your chance!

For lovers of history and medieval architecture, a visit to the Château de Blandy-les-Tours is a wonderful discovery to make in Seine-et-Marne. This site is not only an exceptional testimony to the past, but also a dynamic cultural center that continues to evolve and fascinate its visitors. Strolling through the inner courtyards, climbing the towers or taking part in organized events, you're immersed in a rich and captivating universe that's sure to leave lasting memories.

You can visit this unique château in the Paris region every day except Tuesday during the summer, from April to October (closed in January, February, March and November), except during school vacations (details on the château's website). Admission is €7 full price, €5 concessions, and free for children under 17 and students aged 18 to 25. For the moment, the château has not been declared compliant with accessibility standards, as the audit has not yet been carried out on the château.

To get to Château de Blandy-les-Tours from Paris, take the A5 motorway towards Troyes (exit n°16 Châtillon-la-Borde then follow the D47); from Melun, take the D408 then follow the D47 and the D215 via Vaux-le-Vicomte. By public transport, daytime only, from Paris Gare de Lyon, you can take a train to Melun and then catch the Châteaubus shuttle bus.

L'Héritage des Vicomtes, the sound and light show at Château de Blandy-les-Tours 2024 in photos (77)
From June 28 to August 31, 2024, the Château de Blandy-les-Tours will be telling its story with l'Héritage des Vicomtes, a sound and light show to take you through the centuries and discover this medieval castle. We're off to discover the castle, and here's a sneak preview of what's in store. [Read more]