Saint-Aignan Castle, Saint-Aignan

A Renaissance château built in the 1540s-1550s by the Beauvillier family over medieval fortifications dating back to the 9th century. The building sits on a rocky promontory above the town of Saint-Aignan-sur-Cher and presents two contrasting faces: the north side resembles a fortified village built directly atop ancient ramparts, while the south facade displays elegant carved limestone, mullioned windows, and a steep slate roof typical of Loire Valley Renaissance architecture. The courtyard and terraces are freely accessible year-round, offering panoramic views over the Cher valley and the medieval rooftops below.