Saint-Fargeau Castle
10 Centuries of History

The history of Saint-Fargeau Castle spans over 10 centuries.

In 980, Héribert, Bishop of Auxerre and half-brother of Hugh Capet, built a fortified hunting lodge.

From the 10th to the 15th century, the castle was owned by renowned families: the Lords of Toucy, de Bar, and Jacques Cœur, the famous treasurer of King Charles VII.

In 1453, Antoine de Chabannes rebuilt the current castle on the foundations of the ancient fortress, creating its unique pentagonal layout with six massive towers.

In 1652, Anne-Marie Louise d’Orléans,
the “Grande Mademoiselle,” cousin of Louis XIV

was sentenced to five years of exile after the Fronde events and settled in Saint-Fargeau. She commissioned architect Le Vau to redesign the castle’s inner façades, leaving a stunning example of French classicism.

In 1713, the Lepeletier family acquired the castle. Louis Michel Lepeletier, a famous revolutionary, voted for the execution of Louis XVI and was later assassinated.

Saint-Fargeau Castle also plays a central role in Jean d’Ormesson’s novel Au plaisir de Dieu.

Today, the castle hosts spectacular summer night shows and enchanting candlelight tours.

Photo credits:
Puisaye Forterre Tourist Office / Château de Saint-Fargeau