Located in the “Land of Art and History” of Coëvrons-Mayenne, the castle of Sainte-Suzanne is one of the most beautiful historical sites to visit in the department. Upon entering the castle courtyard, you'll discover several remarkable buildings, including Guillaume Fouquet de la Varenne's residence, a Romanesque keep, a former bakery, and a sheepfold. These buildings offer insight into medieval architecture and daily life.
How to visit the Château de Sainte-Suzanne?
You can freely enter the courtyard of the castle, according to the opening hours of the CIAP (Centre for the Interpretation of Architecture and Heritage). You will be able to access the Romanesque dungeon and the sheepfold of the castle, where often take place exhibitions. Take the time to admire the view of the Coëvrons from the battlementsIf you are a group, we invite you to contact the castle for a visit. ⚠️ For security reasons, the keep of the Château de Sainte-Suzanne is no longer accessible pending work. ⚠️
Lezbroz – Teddy Verneuil – Mayenne Tourism
Viewpoint over the Coëvrons in Mayenne
Want to find the most beautiful photo spots in the Coëvrons hills? Stroll along the ramparts of Sainte-Suzanne Castle for a panoramic view of the Mayenne countryside!
The fortress that defied William the Conqueror
Le castle Sainte-Suzanne is built on a rocky spur, high up, allowing it to defend itself in the event of enemy attacks. In the Middle Ages and until the beginning of the 17th century, the main entrance to the fortress was through the old gatehouse. You will see it on your right, as you go towards the home of Guillaume Fouquet de la Varenne.
From the 1020s, the Beaumont family had this keep built. Formerly, the lord lived there with his family. To protect against attacks, the entrance was via the first floor using a ladder or wooden staircase.
⚠️ For security reasons, the keep of the Château de Sainte-Suzanne is no longer accessible pending work. ⚠️
The home of Guillaume Fouquet de la Varenne
Baron de Sainte-Suzanne and Comptroller General of Posts, Guillaume Fouquet of Varenne, also a friend of Henry IV, had this dwelling built at the beginning of the 17th century. It is the most recent building in the castle courtyard, dating from the Modern Era. Constructed from tuffeau stone, slate and bricks, this dwelling has four levels.
Guillaume Fouquet de la Varenne's home has housed an Architecture and Heritage Interpretation Center since 2009.
Suitable for all types of disability, the CIAP of Sainte-Suzanne will allow you to discover the rich heritage of Mayenne from a historical, but also archaeological, natural and intangible point of view.
An interactive tour
Thanks to multimedia devices, guides, and temporary exhibitions, you will learn about the history of the castle, that of Sainte-Suzanne and its inhabitants, as well as the defeat of William the Conqueror facing this medieval city. This is an essential stop to further your visit to the Coëvrons region of Mayenne.
Do you love history? Step back in time through the greatest historical sites of Sainte-Suzanne, listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France!
