Château de la Roche-Jagu, Ploëzal, France

Built in the 15th century on the site of an earlier medieval fort, the Gothic Château de la Roche-Jagu was much larger originally. The one main wing left standing has severe good looks. There are few openings of any sort on the side dominating the river, reflecting its defensive role. However, a staggering line of 19 chimneys in a row adds a decorative flourish along the crest of the building. The façade on the other side is much lighter and more charming, with a fair number of windows, plus an eccentric tower perched up high.

The building has undergone major restoration work since the Côtes d’Armor county council took it over and began putting on events here. The grand hall on the ground floor was where functions were traditionally held; exhibitions today focus on themes to do with Côtes d’Armor, for instance the county’s hidden treasures, or its maritime riches. The grounds have been beautifully replanted, and awarded the status of Jardin Remarquable. A wonderful new terrace looks down on the dramatic, densely wooded banks of the Trieux from on high.

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Brittany Tourism

User Reviews

Caya Edwards (9 months ago)
Beautiful. Extraordinary exhibition about the world's endangered species and habitats. You can go inside up to the roof. Extensive gardens and walks.

Patrick Erwin (10 months ago)
Lovely large fortified Manor House in beautiful gardens. Very pleasant atmosphere.

THuRStoN (13 months ago)
Lovely chateau with amazing views, gardens. Very calm and great for walking hearing the birds at least in off season.

Joan Arratia (2 years ago)
A great palace to visit! Every floor of it is very well taken care of. You can walk around in the gardens and you have a path that takes you to the river. I went with my boyfriend and his mum, we had a beautiful afternoon! :)

Roderick Swaries (3 years ago)
The Chateau offers an exceptional visitor experience. The basic house visit allows you to understand it’s place in local history. A 6€ per person ticket allows access to the upper floors, where life at the Chateau and it’s various rooms are explained. In summer you have a bonus in getting to see whatever exhibition is displayed. This year’s was insects built from old musical instruments, stunning. The gardens offer excellent displays for each season. The Cafe is great, you need to book for lunchtime, tea, coffee and cakes are available throughout the day without booking. Texts are provided in English to support the display narratives, which are in French. I have visited many times and will return.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Andy Hay

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Argos Theater

The ancient Argos Theater was built in 320 BC. and is located in Argos, Greece against Larissa Hill. Nearby from this site is Agora, Roman Odeon, and the Baths of Argos. The theater is one of the largest architectural developments in Greece and was renovated in ca 120 AD.

The Hellenistic theater at Argos is cut into the hillside of the Larisa, with 90 steps up a steep incline, forming a narrow rectilinear cavea. Among the largest theaters in Greece, it held about 20,000 spectators and is divided by two landings into three horizontal sections. Staircases further divide the cavea into four cunei, corresponding to the tribes of Argos A high wall was erected to prevent unauthorized access into the theatron and may have helped the acoustics, but it is said the sound quality is still very good today.

Around 120 CE, both theaters were renovated in the Roman style.

Château de la Roche-Jagu

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