Anne de Bretagne | Aussie in France

Loches, like Azay-le-Rideau, is on the banks of the Indre. Château de Loches, which consists of the 10th to 12th century collegiate church of St Ours, the early 15th century Logis Royal built by Charles VII and the 12th century keep, said to be the first stone built castle keep in France, surrounded by a very thick wall, stands on a rocky promontory overlooking the very picturesque town which has several Renaissance houses. It is beautifully lit up at night. Jeanne d’Arc arrived here on 11th May 1429 after her historic victory at Orleans to meet the king. The local market, on Wednesday and Saturday mornings attracts people from throughout the region.

Keep at night — Mediaeval gate to Loches Castle lit up at night

Porte Picois and Town Hall in Loches, examples of Renaissance architecture

Joan of Arc's plaque — Joan of Arc’s plaque

Tomb of Agnès Sorel, Charles VII's mistress, known as the Dame de Beauté ( — Tomb of Agnès Sorel, Charles VII’s mistress, known as the Dame de Beauté (

Château de Loche, governor's lodge — Château de Loche, governor’s lodge

Château de Loches, royal dwellng and Agnes de Sorel's tower — Château de Loches, royal dwellng and Agnes de Sorel’s tower

Anne de Bretagne's oratory — Anne de Bretagne’s oratory

The Royal Castle of Langeais in the Loire Vallely, built in 1465 by King Louis XI, is an excellent example of a late mediaeval fortress, with a drawbridge in working order and a parapet walk open to visitors. The interior furnishing is typical of the period, with sculpted wooden chests and fine tapestries. Fifteen wax figures give a lifelike representation of the secret marriage of Charles VIII and Anne Bretagne in 1491 when Charles was 21 and Anne only 16. A large park behind the château offers an excellent view of the Loire and even has (reconstructed!) mediaeval scaffolding.