Châtellerault is at the crossroads between four former provinces: a passageway between Touraine and Poitou, skirted by Berry and Anjou.
Set around the embankments of the Vienne river and Henri IV bridge, Châtellerault was on the only route between the Loire and Spain for many years. A royal town, worker’s town, and the urban heart of a mainly rural area, Châtellerault boasts many historical jewels: medieval churches and castles, Descartes’ home, Renaissance manors - Sully, Alaman, Dybilles, the Way of St. James, theatres and more. The town has also preserved remarkable examples of urban history: Boulevard Blossac, the Manu and the Châteauneuf district, Camille de Hogue bridges, square and gardens.
The 20th century has also left its trace, with examples of Art Nouveau and Art Deco, the post office, villas, the Ozon district with pagoda towers, the Vilmouth towers and the Dupleix covered market.
Country of art and history
Throughout the year the local office promotes the heritage of the area by means of events such as visits, workshops, lectures and exhibitions for local residents, visitors and school children.
Architectural tour
A 3km circuit of 37 sites takes you on a journey through Châtellerault's facinating history, reflected in the different architectural styles and constructions of national stature.
Museum
Chatellerault used to be a centre for the manufacture of arms, but this Museum houses more than 150 vehicles, a collection of different engines, accessories, posters... Try driving and learn how an engine works thanks to simulators, learn the highway code on these interactive simulators.This site received the La Vienne Quality rating in 2007. Not to be missed: the architectural heritage of Châtellerault.
Forest
At the southern gateway to the town, the national forest stretches over 532 hectares. It is the perfect natural site for walking and sport with fitness trails, a petanque court, children’s playground, picnic tables, etc.
Essential places to Châtellerault