Picture the imposing Dourdan Castle. Its walls stand firm against the passage of centuries. This majestic structure in Essonne wasn’t always a symbol of royal authority. Originally a simple wooden fortress. It was built in the early 13th century by King Philip II Augustus. He replaced an earlier structure. The king wanted a stronger castle. The design follows the typical “Philippian” system. This is a very organized system. It is unique in the Ile-de-France region. The Dourdan castle stands out. It has kept most of its original structures. Donjons towers and dry moats remain.
Dourdan Castle wasn’t always a symbol of power. For a time it became a royal prison. Philippe of Orléans transformed it in 1672. It served as a departmental jail after the French Revolution. Prisoners resided here until 1852.
The castle’s donjon is striking. A circular structure with three levels. It rises 26 meters high. Its impressive lancet arches are a testament to the skill of its builders. The upper part no longer has a pointed roof. It is now just a terrace. You can enjoy wonderful views of Dourdan and its surroundings from this terrace.
Over the years many famous people have passed through the walls of Dourdan. Blanche de Castille lived here. Louis d’Evreux Jean duc de Berry lived here too. François de Lorraine duc de Guise and Maximilien de Béthune duc de Sully were residents. Even Anne of Austria and members of the House of Orléans stayed in the castle.
But Dourdan is more than just its castle. The Saint-Germain-d’Auxerre Church stands nearby. Construction began in 1150. It was completed by the end of the 12th century. War and religious conflict damaged the church. The Huguenots attacked it during the Wars of Religion. It was even turned into a Temple of Reason during the French Revolution. The church survived all this. It remains a prominent landmark. Its asymmetric spires are a unique feature.
The market hall is another point of interest. Built in 1836 it replaced an older 13th-century hall. Architect Lucien-Tirte van Clemputte designed it. The floor is a reminder of its predecessor.
Finally don’t forget the Royal Forest of Dourdan. This vast forest was once a hunting ground for French kings. It stretches across 17 square kilometers. Divided by the Orge River. The northern part is the Saint-Arnoult forest. The southern part is known as the Ouée Forest.
Dourdan’s history is rich and varied. From its humble beginnings as a Gallo-Roman ceramics center. To its time as a royal residence and prison. Dourdan Castle is a testament to its past. It stands as a symbol of resilience and enduring heritage. You can leave Dourdan knowing something special. You’ve experienced a bit of French history.