Pierrefonds Castle, history and architecture

The Château de Pierrefonds is a magnificent fortress located in the commune of Pierrefonds, in the department of Oise, in the Hauts-de-France region, in the north of France. This impressive castle is notable for its spectacular medieval architecture and picturesque location in the heart of the Compiègne Forest.

The history of the Château de Pierrefonds

The Château de Pierrefonds has a rich and eventful history. It was built in the 12th century by King Louis I of Orléans, then rebuilt in the 14th century by Louis of Orléans, brother of Charles VI. It was then extensively restored and rebuilt in the 19th century under the direction of the architect Viollet-le-Duc, in the romantic neo-Gothic style.

In the 19th century, the castle was spectacularly restored under the direction of architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, famous for his restorations of iconic monuments such as Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, Interior of the Vézelay Basilica, or the City of Carcassonne. This restoration has given new life to the Château de Pierrefonds, transforming it into an architectural work of art that combines medieval charm with the romantic aesthetic of the 19th century.

An unforgettable visit:

Today, visitors can explore the many treasures that the Château de Pierrefonds holds. From the beautifully decorated rooms to the imposing towers to the vast interior courtyards, every corner of this castle tells a fascinating story. Whether you are passionate about history, architecture or simply looking for adventure, a visit to Château de Pierrefonds promises an unforgettable experience.

Buy tickets for the castle visit: https://www.chateau-pierrefonds.fr/visiter/visites-et-activites

A cinema place

In addition to its rich historical past, Château de Pierrefonds has also played an important role in the film industry. It has been the setting for numerous films and television series, adding to its fame and timeless charm: Merlin, Les Visiteurs 2 and even in Jeanne d’Arc by Luc Besson.

The different places of the castle:

The chapel, the main courtyard, the park, the bridges, the recumbent ball, the winged lion... so many cult places to discover in the heart of this castle.