Château ( Castle ) de Vincennes, France

The Château de Vincennes is a medieval royal castle located in the town of Vincennes on the eastern edge of Paris in France. The castle was built in the late 14th century but its history dates back to the 12th century when a hunting lodge was set up on the site of the present castle for Louis VII of France. During the 13th century was the hunting lodge rebuilt as a manor. In 1274 and 1322 the Château de Vincennes was the place of marriage of Philippe III and Philippe IV and also the birth place of three 14th century Kings of France: Louis X, Philippe V and Charles IV.



During the 14th century was the castle enlarged and Philip VI added 52 meters high a keep (donjon tower) which served as a residence for the royal family. After the end of the Hundred Years' War at the castle stayed among others also Louis XI, François I and Henri II. In 17th century were made some additions by the architect Louis Le Vau but the rebuilding of the Château de Vincennes stopped after the beginning of construction of Versailles Palace. After the death of Louis XIV was the castle abandoned as a royal residence and afterwards served as a porcelain manufacture, state prison and arms manufacture. After a long time restoration works in the past century the Château de Vincennes today houses a museum and is open to public.