Château de Tarascon
Château de Tarascon (Château du Roi René)
A well-preserved 15th-century castle on the Rhône, home of King René of Anjou. Visitors can climb to the roof terrace for views over the Rhône and the Alpilles.
The Château de Tarascon, also known as the “Castle of King René,” was begun in the early 15th century by Louis II, Duke of Anjou, and completed by his son René, “the Good King.” Its white stone walls rise straight from the bank of the Rhône, facing Beaucaire Castle across the river. It is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Provence. Inside, you can see the courtyard, chapel, banquet hall, prison cells covered in graffiti left by prisoners, and a contemporary art exhibition. Finally, climb to the roof terrace for views over the Rhône and the Alpilles. The town is also home to the legendary beast Tarasque, which Saint Martha is said to have subdued, and a Tarasque festival is held at the end of June. The castle is usually open year-round, with admission of about €9 (check the official website for current prices). From Avignon, it's about 15 minutes by train to Tarascon station and about 10 minutes on foot from there.
Opening hours
Summer 9:30 am–6:30 pm; shorter in winter (check the official website)
Nearby sights
- Arles
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
- Glanum
- Saint-Paul de Mausole
- Pont du Gard
- Palais des Papes, Avignon
- Les Halles d'Avignon