Richard the Lionheart's castle

ViajeroThis is Château Gaillard, the famous medieval fortress built by Richard the Lionheart in the late 12th century, perched above the town of Les Andelys in Normandy, France. Key features that identify it: • The distinctive rounded keep (central tower) with surrounding curtain walls. • The chalky white path and ruins scattered across the hilltop. • Its commanding position above a bend in the Seine River, giving it strategic defensive views. Richard the Lionheart constructed it in 1196 to protect the Duchy of Normandy from French invasion. It later played a key role in the wars between England and France. Though partially ruined today, it’s one of the most dramatic and scenic castle remains in Normandy.

ViajeroThis photo shows more of the ruins of Château Gaillard — specifically, the outer wall of the upper bailey, with its tall, narrow windows and rugged stonework. You’re standing within what would have been one of the outer defensive enclosures, possibly near the residential quarters or chapel area. In the foreground are stone foundations, likely the remains of internal structures that supported floors or walls within the bailey. The window openings give a sense of the scale and defensive design — narrow from the outside for protection, wider inside for archers or light. The location’s sweeping view over the Seine River valley made it an ideal lookout and stronghold, showcasing Richard the Lionheart’s architectural and strategic foresight.

ViajeroThis is a striking close-up of the keep (donjon) at Château Gaillard, showcasing its unique and advanced medieval military architecture. The buttresses projecting from the tower helped to support the heavy stone structure while also giving it an imposing defensive appearance. The alternating pattern of smooth and rough stonework suggests areas that have been restored over time, likely to preserve the structural integrity of the walls. The sign on the lower left confirms it’s a protected site under surveillance — a reminder of its historical importance. Standing beside it gives you a sense of scale: this was a fortress meant to withstand sieges and symbolize power. Richard the Lionheart had it built in just two years (1196–1198), which is impressive given the complexity of the design.