Châteauneuf-en-Auxois
One of the loveliest villages in France

High on its rocky spur, the fortified village of Châteauneuf still stands guard over the road from Dijon to Autun. From the canal de Bourgogne, along the 'voie verte', its silhouette forms part of one of the finest views in the region. An emblematic place combining modern art and medieval events.

An imposing fortress

Châteauneuf-en-Auxois is one of the last remaining examples of 14th century Burgundian military architecture. During the Hundred Years War, towers and curtain walls were built to defend the village and the Auxois plains.

A tour of the village combines buildings devoted to war and those devoted to aristocratic life.

• The keep, a large, square tower built in the 12th century for defence
• The 'Grand logis' and the dwelling of Philippe Pot, high seneschal of Burgundy, crusader and knight of the Golden Fleece, both have Gothic ornamentation.
• The chapel boasts some fine 15th century, tempera paintings.

The medieval village

From the 14th-17th centuries wealthy Burgundian merchants built houses at Châteauneuf-en-Auxois, many of which survive today. It is easy to imagine the history of this once prosperous borough if you are curious and look around carefully. In the narrow streets you can see houses with pediments and stair turrets.

Varied cultural season

Workshops, night time walks, court music, a medieval market are all on offer. As always, a number of activities are reserved for children. If they want to be real knights, they have to be able to wield a sword!

In summer Châteauneuf-en-Auxois welcomes modern artists. There are theatrical productions and exhibitions arranged by the FRAC (Fonds Régional d'Art Contemporain). 2010 saw the introduction of sign language and a Duchy of Burgundy visitor centre is being created.

Châteauneuf-en-Auxois is a truly memorable stage in any trip through the Pays de l'Auxois, which would not be complete without also seeing Fontenay abbey, Alésia and Flavigny-sur-Ozerain.

Practical information

You can visit Châteauneuf-en-Auxois in a number of ways – family tours, special themed workshops for school children ... ask for details!

Address details

Château de Châteauneuf-en-Auxois
21320 Châteauneuf
Tel. : +33 (0)3 80 49 21 89
E-mail : chateau.chateauneuf@cr-bourgogne.fr

Opening times

Open daily except Monday.

2nd January to 14th May and 15th September to 31st December:
 - 10am-12.30pm & 2-5.45pm

15th May to 14th September:
 - 9.30 am-12.30pm & 2-6.45pm

Closed: 1st January, 1st May, 1st November, 11th November & 25th December.

Find nearby