Département properties
To explore Anjou, is to choose a voyage in a region of surprising diversity, steeped in history and open to modernity. Listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO, for its Loire River banks, our département attracts many tourists from France and abroad.
Worked on for 20 years to restore 20 centuries of history, the Saint-Martin collegiate church is one of the finest examples of Carolingian architecture in France. Ideally located on the historical tourist route through the city centre, this monument is an integral part of Angevin heritage. It stands out as a place of discovery and culture for all. Archaeological digs have revealed the mysteries of this site, bringing to light the treasures and complexity of the collegiate church’s history. A rich cultural programme alternating contemporary and heritage seasons is punctuated with concerts, lectures, exhibitions and theatrical visits.
The Isle-Briand Estate is the property of the Maine-et-Loire Département, open to the public and made available to the Lion-d’Angers National Stud, as well as the Société des Courses du Lion-d’Angers (Racing Board). Every year, the “Mondial du Lion” racing event, of international renown, is held there attracting 35,000 spectators.
The Isle-Briand estate is much more than the temple of horse racing that we know so well. Through its history and successive owners the remaining buildings and park illustrate the social, agricultural and economic transformations of the Segréen area in 19th century.
The castle of Le Plessis-Macé was built out of black schist stone at the end of the 11th century. It was transformed into a magnificent sporting residence in the 15th century. The whole building bloomed in the Flamboyant Gothic style.
The “tuffeau” balcony and the chapel, within which is a rare Gothic tribune, are its finest examples. Nowadays, one can appreciate the contrast between the 15th century buildings and the remains of the old 13th century castle.
There are many things to do at the castle of Le Plessis-Macé. It can be visited (horaires et tarifs), it can be rented out for seminars or a family event (les salles et les tarifs), or one can take part in educational workshops there. It is the setting for the “Très tôt en scène” (early on stage) theatre festival and the Anjou Festival.
Le Château of Montsoreau is located on a strategic site and it is an exceptional tourist site. It overlooks the Vienne and the Loire, and it is only a few kilometres from the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud. From the top of its towers there is a good view of the Anjou and Touraine area.
The Château of Brissac is open from April to June and Mid September and October every day except Tuesday, and daily from July to Mid September.
For further information, please ring: 33 (0)2.41.91.22.21 (33 (0)2.41.91.25.60).
The Abbey of Asnières, in the borough of Cizay-la-Madeleine, is a magnificent building dating from the early 13h century.
Even though the nave is no longer there, the most valuable parts of the building have been wonderfully preserved, such as the choir that was built in the Plantagenet Gothic style and the transept. They are an example of architectural perfection.
It is possible to visit the Abbey in July and August, from 2.00 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. except on Tuesdays. For an appointment to visit at any other time of year, please ring : 33 (0)2 41 67 04 92.
