Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Thouaré, located in Thouaré-sur-Loire in Loire-Atlantique, finds its origins in the 10th century with a feudal motte built on ancient Gallo-Roman remains. This strategic site on the banks of Loire, then dependent on the Duchy of Brittany, houses a chapel that became the first parish church in Saint Vincent. The medieval village is organized around the castle, with adjacent houses and presbytery, before the church is moved for demographic reasons.

The current structure, mainly dating from the 14th century, combines various architectural elements: two wings frame a Renaissance tower-lantern, medieval niches, and 10th century moat. The 15th century dovecote, made of stone and tuffeau, symbolizes seigneurial power with its 1,189 niches. The double-menet windows, added in the 19th century, reflect later modifications. The estate, private property, also includes outbuildings and stables.

The castle frequently changes hands from the Middle Ages. Founded in 1254 by Guillaume de Thouaré, it passes between the families of Ussé, d'Elbiest, Saint-Amadour, then Descartes (linked to René Descartes) in the 17th century. Piled during the Revolution, it was bought in the 19th century by industrialists like Nicolas Sigisbert Cézard, before being acquired by the Mathieu de Vienne family in 1882. Ranked a historic monument in 1982, it remains closed to the public but exceptionally opens for events.

A landmark episode in his history was the visit of King Charles IX on October 11, 1565, during his great tour of France. Hosted by Charles d'Avaugour of Brittany and his wife, the sovereign dined there before joining Nantes. This royal passage illustrates the strategic and social importance of the castle to the Renaissance.

The dovecote, sometimes accessible at European Heritage Days, and the millennial moats recall the evolution of the site, from feudal origins to its present role as an exceptional place for private receptions. Its inscription in historical monuments highlights its heritage value, mixing medieval heritage, Renaissance and modern transformations.

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