Loches, where art and history meet

Medieval boom time

Following on from a probable Roman foundation, the upper town, or Royal City, began flourishing during the 6th century with the construction of a priory dedicated to St. Ursus. Circa 900 and lasting more than three centuries a succession of Counts of Anjou, who later ascended to the throne of England, transformed Loches into a formidable stronghold.

Fulk III, known as Fulk the Black, built the keep during the 11th century. During the 13th century the lower town developed as a result of the trade route linking Paris to Northern Spain. The Royal Residence was also built during this period.

To protect its population, the town built several levels of defensive systems, many of which still remain today. Three towering medieval gateways still welcome visitors: Porte Picois, Porte des Cordeliers and Porte Royale, which Joan of Arc passed under on her way to meet Charles VII.

Renaissance inspired

The Chancellery is home to the architecture & heritage interpretation centre. The exceptional Renaissance facade is directly inspired by Michelangelo’s work in the Laurentian Library in Florence. Next to the Chancellery is the Maison du Centaure. Its facade is decorated with a relief representing Hercules and a centaur. The town hall, commissioned by François I himself, features a grand staircase, one of the first straight staircases built during this period. Another distinctive fact is that this building has served the same purpose for over 500 years.

Modern times

The arrival of the railway marked a new beginning for Loches. In addition to boosting the economy, it also brought more government services. Near the 16th-century hospital is the Château d’Armaillé, which became the sub-prefecture (visible from rue du Dr. Martinais, it is closed to the public).

An impressive 19th-century courthouse was erected on the old market square. The town boasts some magnificent buildings, such as the Caisse d'Epargne (Savings Bank) and the Chamber of Commerce. The public park,, imagined like a botanical garden and surrounded by century-old trees,  is perfect for enjoying time out. Complete with a bandstand the park, running along the banks of the Indre, provides a wonderful backdrop to the medieval town and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the town's monuments.