A balcony overlooking the town
Enjoy the view from the Clock Tower's parapet walk!
The Clock Tower offers a magnificent panorama of the town of Chinon, a 180° view. In the 14th century, the town of Chinon extended mainly at the foot of the fortress. This part was known as the "fortified town". The surrounding wall started from the Mill Tower in the direction of the Vienne. The ramparts then turned to the left along the river, in place of the current quays. They return to the Fortress at the end of Fort Saint-Georges, passing in front of what is now the town hall.
At the time of Charles VII, private mansions were built to house the king's court.
After your visit to the fortress, don't hesitate to stroll through the streets of Chinon, where you will discover beautiful half-timbered and stone-built houses. Also check out the churches in the town:
- the church of Saint-Maurice, testimony of the Plantagenet period.
- The old collegiate church Saint-Mexme and its two recognizable towers.
- The church of Saint-Etienne which dates from the 15th century. Its stained glass windows from the 19th century tell the story of Chinon, especially the famous scene of the Recognition between Joan of Arc and Charles VII.
- The Sainte-Radegonde chapel: a troglodytic chapel to be found along the hillsides. Beautiful murals dating from 1200 adorn its walls.