Chateau de Brissac

Chateau de Brissac Overview

Chateau de Brissac is a stunning 16th-century castle located in the heart of the Loire Valley in France. The castle is considered one of the most impressive in the region, with its distinctive turrets and towers, stunning gardens, and opulent interior. The castle has a rich history that spans more than 500 years, and it has been owned by the same family for over 250 years. The castle was originally built in the 11th century but was rebuilt in the 16th century by Charles II de Cossé, a nobleman who became the first Duke of Brissac. He spared no expense in transforming the castle into a grand residence fit for a king. Today, visitors can explore the castle's many rooms, including the grand reception hall, the chapel, the library, and the bedrooms.


One of the highlights of the castle is the impressive art collection, which includes works by Rubens, Van Dyck, and other famous artists. The gardens are also a must-see, with their perfectly manicured lawns, ornate fountains, and colorful flower beds. Chateau de Brissac is open to the public for tours, and visitors can learn about the castle's fascinating history and explore its many rooms and gardens. The castle is also available for events such as weddings and conferences, providing a stunning and unforgettable backdrop for any occasion.

Some Interesting Facts about Chateau de Brissac

Some Interesting Facts about Chateau de Brissac
  • Chateau de Brissac is the tallest castle in the Loire Valley, with seven stories and a height of 52 meters.
  • The castle has 204 rooms, making it one of the largest in the region.
  • The castle's art collection includes works by famous artists such as Rubens, Van Dyck, and Fragonard.
  • The castle has a rich history and is said to be haunted by several ghosts, including the "Green Lady," who is said to have been murdered by her husband in the castle.
  • The castle's gardens cover over 70 hectares and feature a maze, a rose garden, and several fountains and sculptures.
  • The castle has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including "The Three Musketeers" and "Versailles."
  • The castle is available for weddings, conferences, and other events, and it offers several different event spaces and catering options.


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Explore Chateau de Brissac

The Grand Reception Hall

This room is the largest in the castle and is truly impressive. The ceiling is decorated with intricate paintings that depict mythological scenes, and the room is adorned with chandeliers and ornate furniture. The "Four Seasons" tapestries, which are over 300 years old and display rural scenes, are also located in this room.

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The Chapel

The chapel is a beautiful example of 17th-century architecture, with its elaborate altar, stained-glass windows, and beautiful frescoes. It is still used for religious ceremonies today.

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The Library

The library is a stunning room filled with rare books and manuscripts, including many first editions and beautifully illuminated manuscripts. The collection includes works on history, literature, art, and science, and visitors can browse through the volumes and admire the beautiful interior.

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The Bedrooms

The castle has several bedrooms, each with its unique style and decor. The most famous of these is the "Green Room," which is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former resident. The room has an impressive four-poster bed and beautiful antique furniture, as well as a hidden door that leads to a secret staircase.

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The Gardens

The castle's gardens are a beautiful and peaceful oasis, with several different areas to explore. The maze is a popular attraction, as is the rose garden, which features over 450 different types of roses. The gardens also have several fountains and sculptures, as well as stunning views of the castle.

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The Wine Cellar

Chateau de Brissac is located in the heart of the Loire Valley wine region, and the castle has an extensive wine cellar that showcases local wines. Visitors can taste and purchase wines from the region, including sparkling wines, white wines, and red wines.

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History of Chateau de Brissac

  • Chateau de Brissac was originally built in the 11th century as a fortress.
  • The castle was rebuilt in the 16th century by Charles II de Cossé, a nobleman who became the first Duke of Brissac.
  • Charles II de Cossé spared no expense in transforming the castle into a grand residence fit for a king, with lavish decorations, furniture, and art collections.
  • The castle remained in the Cossé-Brissac family until the French Revolution, when it was confiscated by the state.
  • In the 19th century, the castle was purchased by a wealthy industrialist, who restored it to its former glory and added several new features, including a theater and an orangery.
  • The castle was damaged during World War II and underwent extensive renovations in the decades that followed.
  • Today, Chateau de Brissac is open to the public for tours and events, and it remains one of the most impressive castles in the Loire Valley.

Know Before You Go to Chateau de Brissac

Essential Information
How to Reach
Essential Information

Opening Hours of Chateau de Brissac:

The opening hours of Château de Brissac may vary depending on the season and specific dates. It is best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information. However, as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the general opening hours were as follows:

April to September: The castle is typically open daily from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM.

October to March: The castle may have reduced opening days and hours. It is advisable to check in advance.


Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Château de Brissac is during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is generally pleasant and the castle gardens are in full bloom. This period allows you to explore the beautiful exterior gardens and enjoy the scenic surroundings. However, do keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, and the castle may be more crowded during this time. If you prefer a quieter visit, you might consider visiting during weekdays or outside of peak hours.

How to Reach

By Car: The most convenient way to reach the castle is by car. From Angers, which is approximately 16 kilometers away, you can take the D748 road southwest to Brissac-Quincé. The castle is well signposted, and there is parking available on-site.

By Train: If you prefer public transportation, you can take a train to Angers, which is well-connected to other major cities in France. From Angers, you can either rent a car or take a taxi for the remaining distance to Château de Brissac.

By Bus: There might be bus services available from nearby towns or cities to Brissac-Quincé. It is advisable to check with the local transport authorities or consult the official website of Château de Brissac for information on bus routes and schedules.

By Bicycle: If you enjoy cycling, you can reach Château de Brissac by bike. The Loire Valley is known for its cycling routes, and there are bike paths and trails that can lead you to Brissac-Quincé. You can rent bicycles from nearby towns or bring your own if you're traveling with them.

By Taxi: Taxis are available in the region, and you can hire one to take you directly to Château de Brissac from nearby cities or towns. Taxi services can be easily found at train stations, airports, or by calling a local taxi company.

FAQs

What is the history of Chateau de Brissac?

Chateau de Brissac has a rich and fascinating history that dates back over 1,000 years. Originally built in the 11th century as a fortress, the castle was transformed into a grand residence in the 16th century by Charles II de Cossé, a nobleman who became the first Duke of Brissac. The castle was then passed down through the Cossé-Brissac family for several generations, and it was confiscated by the state during the French Revolution. In the 19th century, the castle was purchased by a wealthy industrialist who restored it to its former glory and added several new features, including a theater and an orangery. Today, Chateau de Brissac is open to the public and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past, with its stunning architecture, art collections, and historic furnishings.

How many rooms are there in Chateau de Brissac?

Chateau de Brissac is one of the largest castles in the Loire Valley, with 204 rooms spread over seven floors. The castle's rooms include the Grand Reception Hall, the chapel, the library, the bedrooms, and the wine cellar. Each room is richly decorated with antique furnishings, tapestries, and artwork, providing visitors with a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the castle's former residents.

What are some of the notable features of Chateau de Brissac?

Chateau de Brissac is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture and is filled with many notable features. Some of the most impressive include the Grand Reception Hall, which features ornate ceilings and a beautiful fireplace, the chapel, which is adorned with stunning stained glass windows, and the library, which houses over 12,000 books. The castle's bedrooms are also noteworthy, with each one featuring unique furnishings and decorations. Outside, the castle's gardens cover over 70 hectares and feature a maze, a rose garden, and several fountains and sculptures.

What is the Green Room in Chateau de Brissac?

The Green Room is one of the most famous rooms in Chateau de Brissac, and it is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former resident. The room features a beautiful four-poster bed and antique furnishings, and it also has a hidden door that leads to a secret staircase. Legend has it that the ghost of the "Green Lady" appears in the room from time to time, and visitors can still see the stain on the floor where she was allegedly murdered by her husband.

What is the height of Chateau de Brissac?

Chateau de Brissac is the tallest castle in the Loire Valley, with a height of 52 meters. The castle's impressive height is due in part to the fact that it was built on a hill, giving it a commanding view of the surrounding countryside.

Is Chateau de Brissac open to the public?

Yes, Chateau de Brissac is open to the public for tours and events. Visitors can explore the castle's rooms, gardens, and wine cellar, and there are also guided tours available that provide additional information about the castle's history and architecture. The castle is a popular destination for tourists visiting the Loire Valley, and it offers a unique glimpse into France's rich cultural heritage.

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