In Étampes, the Tour de Guinette reopens for the Journées du Patrimoine 2026
Closed to the public for several years, the Tour de Guinette is finally opening its doors again in Étampes for the Journées du Patrimoine 2026, on 19 and 20 September. This weekend marks far more than a simple reopening: it celebrates the completion of a major restoration project for one of the most singular medieval monuments in Île-de-France.
A royal 12th-century keep at the heart of Étampes
Perched above the town, the Tour de Guinette has dominated the Étampes skyline for more than eight centuries. It is now the only surviving remnant of the former royal castle of Étampes, built during the reign of Louis VI le Gros. Its position along a strategic axis linking Paris to the south of the kingdom once gave it considerable military importance.
What makes this monument particularly rare is its quadrilobed floor plan: four lobes arranged around a central space. This architectural configuration, uncommon in the medieval heritage of the Île-de-France region, served both to reinforce the keep’s defences and to facilitate surveillance of the surrounding area. Over time, the castle lost its military purpose before being gradually dismantled. The tower, however, remained standing, becoming the principal witness to a royal complex that has otherwise vanished.
The restoration work carried out in recent years aimed to consolidate the structure, secure its surroundings, and better showcase its original architecture. Thanks to these efforts, the monument can now welcome visitors in proper conditions.
What you can experience on site during the Journées du Patrimoine 2026
The programme designed for these two days is rich and varied. From Saturday 19 September at 11am, an official inauguration ceremony opens the festivities, followed by a visit to the interior of the tower, accessible to a maximum of 18 people at a time. It is a rare opportunity to step inside a space that has long been off-limits.
- Fencing initiation and medieval show by the association Le Masque de Fer, on Saturday from 12pm to 4:30pm
- Short theatrical scenes by the Compagnie des Muscardins, Saturday and Sunday at 2pm and 5pm
- Free self-guided visit to the interior of the tower, Saturday and Sunday from 2pm to 5pm, no booking required
- Guided discovery tour tracing the history of the castle from the 12th century to the present day, bookable by phone on 01 64 94 99 10 or by email at [email protected]
- Chain-mail weaving and arrowhead forging workshops by the Étampes archers, on Sunday from 11am to 5pm
All activities are free of charge. Only the guided discovery tours require advance booking, as places are limited. For self-guided visits, no registration is needed, though capacity is also limited.
Understanding the history of Étampes through its stones
Beyond the spectacle and the activities, the Journées du Patrimoine 2026 offer a genuine gateway into the medieval history of the region. The Tour de Guinette provides a tangible sense of how royal fortresses, defensive techniques, and urban fabric evolved between the Middle Ages and today.
The guided discovery tour is particularly well suited to those who want to understand the transformations of the castle of Étampes between the 12th century and the present day. It places the monument in its historical context and illustrates the role the town played in the history of Île-de-France. For families or curious visitors who prefer to explore at their own pace, the self-guided visit remains a fine alternative.
Practical information to plan your visit
Both days take place on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September 2026 at the Tour de Guinette, in Étampes. Entry is free for all activities on offer. For guided tours, booking is mandatory: by phone on 01 64 94 99 10 or by email at [email protected]. Available time slots are Saturday at 3pm and 4:30pm, and Sunday at 12pm, 3pm, and 4:30pm. These Journées du Patrimoine 2026 events are aimed at Étampes residents and passing visitors to Essonne alike, all keen to (re)discover a medieval monument that has long been kept from the public eye.
