Off to see Dourdan Castle

---

Geo: 48.5297, 2.01211

Today we headed off on a day trip to the town of Dourdan where there was a lovely old castle and church. Upon arriving we found a kebab place open and had a nice lunch there. Pat and Sonya were not 100% sure exactly what their meal was, but it was very tasty. Jim had a spicy chicken tikka bunwich which he also enjoyed. Once we were fed we headed off to explore the castle.

The castle was built in 1222 and had a succession of different kings and lords in residence. At the end of the 17th century it was transformed into a prison and remained that way till 1852. After that, the owner converted the building into a private home, reducing the height of the walls and towers by two-thirds. In 1964 it was classified as a historic building. The castle had a good little museum and rooms of the castle were nice to wander through before walking along the old ramparts and climbing up the keep tower. From the tower we had a lovely view of Dourdan and Saint-Germain church. While on the tower we chatted with a couple who moved to France thirty years ago from Scotland. They gave us some ideas of other places to visit in the area. It was a nice castle and well worth the visit. Before leaving Dourdan we walked into the 12th century Saint-Germain church.

---