Château médiéval de Gençay
This fortress, located 25 km south of Poitiers, was built between 1245 and 1265 by Geoffroy IV de Rancon, Lord of Gençay, with financial assistance from King Louis IX of France, to whom he had sworn allegiance. Situated on the border between the Counts of Poitou and La Marche, it was alternately a prize contested by Françay and the English during the Hundred Years' War. The most significant events were the captivity of King John the Good at the castle after his defeat at Maupertuis in 1356, and the liberation of the castle in 1375 by the troops of Du Guesclin.
Listed as a Historic Monument in 1840 by Prosper Mérimée.
Guided tour by reservation for groups.
Summer 2026: guided tours open to all from 01/07 to 31/08:
Schedules will be available soon.
Practical information
Visit
Further information
Rue de la Fontaine
86160 GENCAY