Stationed southwest of Paris and northwest of Orleans, the town of Chateaudun is perched on a rocky summit overlooking the Loire River in the Centre region of France. When you head towards the Loire Valley from Paris in your rented car, Chateau de Chateaudun is the first castle you will see and is also a registered historic monument. Built in the 12th century, modifications in the 17th century were done to make the chateau more livable. It is most notable for its stunning architectural features, as well as for an important fresco in the castle’s chapel that portrays the Final Judgement and dates to the 15th century.

A terrible fire ravaged Chateaudun early in the 18th century, but despite the devastation it caused, a variety of magnificent medieval structures still exist in the old town. The castle ramparts also provide stunning views of the Loire Valley, while the churches of Saint-Valerien, eglise de la Madeleine and Saint-Jean-de-la-Chaine are sure to delight visitors.