Château des ducs de Savoie
Description
A former fortress and princely palace, the Château de Chambéry was the seat of power of the Counts and Dukes of Savoy. Built from the 13th century onward, it now houses the Prefecture and the Department, continuing its administrative role since Savoy became part of France in 1860.
Modified several times since the 13th century, it has retained its administrative vocation ever since. From 1502 to 1578, the castle chapel housed the Holy Shroud. The bell tower now houses the 70-bell “Saint-François de Sales” carillon, the work of the Paccard foundry in Sévrier. A concert is held every first and third Saturday of the month at 11 a.m.
Today, the château houses the Savoie Prefecture, the Savoie Departmental Council, and the Savoie Academy. The castle can only be visited on guided tours, offered year-round, which include the historic center of Chambéry, the main courtyard, and the Sainte-Chapelle. Advance booking is required, and access conditions may change due to security measures.
Address
Chambéry, France
Established
13th century