CHAUVIGNY
About twenty kilometres from Poitiers, this plural and bewitching city is worth a visit.
Listed as one of France's most beautiful detours, the medieval town is distinguished by its five fortified castles built on the same rocky spur. One of them, the Château des Évêques, hosts a famous free-flying bird show. 100% picturesque.
Symbol of the medieval past
A rocky spur bristling with fortresses and overlooking the Vienne valley - that's what the visitor sees as he approaches Chauvigny.
Five fortified castles situated on the same promontory make this medieval city a grandiose site, unique in Europe!
At the far end stands the Château des Evêques which lends its decor to the Giants of the Sky.
Don't miss Château d'Harcourtthe best preserved of the medieval quintet.
Classified as a historic monument, the dungeon of Gouzon has been home to theEspace d'Archéologie Industrielle.
Geocaching treasure hunt Tèrra Aventura, présente sur l’ensemble de la Nouvelle-Aquitaine, propose un parcours consacré à Chauvigny ! Venez découvrir la commune en résolvant les énigmes 🙂
Craftsmanship and know-how
Chauvinois artisans draw on their town's rich history.
As you stroll through the picturesque streets, you'll come face to face with a basket-maker, a potter, a sculptor...
The famous porcelain manufacturer Deshoulières Apilco is another example of local know-how. Its factory outlet is a great success.
The Giants of the Sky
The baronial château, known as the Château des Évêques, offers an exceptional backdrop for impressive free-flying bird shows.
In the open-air amphitheatre, birds from all over the world circle above the captivated audience.
Every year, new species join the family of Sky Giants, which already includes several stars of the silver screen.
St. Peter's Collegiate Church
At the center of the medieval town stands the elegant silhouette of the collegiate church of Saint-Pierre, a jewel of Romanesque art.
World-renowned for their sculptural richness, the choir's capitals depict episodes from the lives of the Virgin Mary and Jesus, as well as a profusion of animals and monsters.
The Velorail
Funny, colorful machines take to the old railroad line for 17 kilometers of communion with the flora and fauna.
Whether you're a duo, a family or a group of friends, up to five per vehicle, you'll pedal with your hair blowing in the wind, threading your way through undergrowth, crossing viaducts, overlooking the river... As an added bonus, these two-hour VéloRail rides offer a breathtaking view of the medieval town.
The Castle of Touffou (Good)
In the great tradition of Loire castles, Touffou reached its apogee during the Renaissance.
In 1966, David Ogilvy, the New York advertising executive who inspired the Don Draper character in "Mad Men", bought the estate. With his wife, he set about the titanic task of maintaining the old stones and creating the entire park. The park, divided into three sections, easily earns its "Jardins Remarquables" label. From this majestic residence overlooking the Vienne river, you can visit the frescoed François 1er tower, the chapel tower and its dungeons, and the former kitchens.
monument closed to the public
OFFICE
INFORMATION
TOURISM
Chauvigny - Medieval City (Upper Town)
5 rue Saint-Pierre - 86300 Chauvigny
Phone: +33 (0)5 49 46 39 01
Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm and from 2 pm to 6 pm
