The keep at the 'Donjon' at Loches was one of thirteen such towers built at the beginning of the 11th century by Foulques Nerra the Count d'Anjou . The square tower is 36 metres high and the fact that it is still standing today is testament to just how well it was built. Although today, what you see from the outside is virtually all that remains as the floors and roof have been lost to time.
From inside you easily make out the different floor levels and the fireplaces serving them.The ground floor of the tower would have been used as a store the first floor would have housed the 'grande salle' or great hall which would have been used as a reception and entertaining room. The other levels would have been the private residence of whoever was occupying the fortress as the time.The top level wouold also have been where they would retreat in less peaceful times.There is a walkway that takes you up the interior of the walls, not for the faint-hearted, which allows access to the top of the tower. Once you chase off the current residents you can take advantage of the great views from the top platform of the surrounding area,
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Views of the town itself...
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of St.Ours church...
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and further on to the neighbouring town of Beaulieu-les-Loches,it is well worth making the climb!
From within you quickly create out the different floor stages and the fire places offering them.The beginning of the structure would have been used as a shop the first floor would have located the 'grande salle' or excellent lounge which would have been used as a party and interesting area.
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