Châtillon-Coligny Keep

The Châtillon-Coligny Keep, locally known as Donjon de Château de Châtillon-Coligny, is situated in the town of the same name in the Loiret department in France.

The first fortification at this site, a hill overlooking the Loing valley, already existed in 1059 and consisted of a wooden fort. This fort was destroyed in 1143 by Louis VII of France. A stone castle, of which the present keep is the only remnant, was then built around 1190 by Stephen I, Count of Sancerre, and a town grew up around it.

In 1359, following the destruction of the castle and town during the Hundred Years’ War, the townspeople rebuilt their settlement down in the valley, surrounding it with defensive walls. The castle was also rebuilt, but from that point on, it was located outside the town, although its walls were connected to the town ramparts.

The castle passed to the House of Coligny in 1437. During the 15th and 16th centuries, the medieval castle was turned into a grand residence by the Colignys. New wings, pavilions, and an orangery were added. Also, a large Renaissance garden was laid out.

Following the French Revolution, demolition began in 1798, removing much of the castle except for the stripped keep, the orangery, and an ornate well. In 1854, a new modest château was built atop the former stables by the last descendant of the Montmorency-Luxembourg family, who had gradually repurchased the estate after 1816.

The keep has a round plan, stands approximately 27 meters high, and now serves as a garden ornament on the grounds of the 19th-century château.

As the estate is private, the Châtillon-Coligny Keep cannot be visited, but can be seen from a side gate on Rue Mac Mahon. The château and grounds are occasionally open to the public during events. An imposing keep.

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