The Castle of Suscinio

Anyone in Sarzeau will tell you that the moated and turreted castle of Suscinio is a ‘must’ to see !

It was built in the s outh of Sarzeau in an outstanding seaside setting, only a stone’s throw from a magnificent long sweeping sandy beach backed by dunes.

In the Middle Ages it was one of the favourite residences of the Dukes of Brittany and their court. They came here mainly for entertainment and hunting in the former surrounding forest. Most of the castle was erected under the reign of Duke Jean I in the 13th century.

Later, the Château de Suscinio was fortified and restored on a number of occasions. Over the past thirty years, this massive monument has undergone considerable restoration. In 1995, the roofs of the Logis Ouest (West Dwelling) and of the Tour Neuve (New Tower) were restored with meticulous care by high ly -qualified roofers – for the roofs had been unfortunately destroyed during the French Revolution.

Do not miss the cultural event the“ Spectacles Historiques ”, a historical performance that takes place in summer in the grounds of the castle . These “ Spectacles ” are mediaeval festivities with flamboyant costumes and a fascinating Son & Lumière show.

The Château de Suscinio has really something special that makes it unique in the world. Inside, you can see a large mediaeval tiled floor dating back to the 14 th century. The floor once embellished the castle’s former chapel. It consists of well preserved, fired clay tiles showing abstract and captivating figurative motifs. The archaeologists were amazed on the discovery of these tiles since they thought that the technique of making them was much more recent. These clay tiles therefore constitute a wealth of rare historical items that are well worth a look.

The castle is open all year. In summer, in addition to the mediaeval festivities, many other entertaining cultural events take place.

Information :
Château de SUSCINIO - Tel : 02 97 41 91 91 - Fax : 02 97 41 75 01
Web site : www.suscinio.info


Pavés médiévaux du Château de Suscinio