Place de Chateauneuf (New Castle Square), Tours

New Castle Square (Place de Chateauneuf) is one of the most beautiful places in Tours. The square lies at the foot of the Charlemagne Tower, which is one of the four towers of the ancient Basilica of Saint Martin. Beside the Tower, one can see the remains of the old basilica itself, built between the 11th and the 13th centuries over the tomb of the bishop of Tours.

Another key attraction on the square is the Mansion of the Dukes of Touraine, dating back to the 14th century. The palatial residence consists of two buildings with gables overlooking a courtyard and a Gothic-style octagonal tower in between.

The name Chateauneuf (“New Castle”) refers to the historic town that evolved around the Abbey of St Martin back in the 9th century. Attesting to this are the ancient fortifications dating from that period.

By the 2010s, the square had found itself cluttered with vehicles and in much need of renovation. In 2017, Place de Châteauneuf finally received a facelift and was made entirely pedestrian. The gentrified area now boasts ample green spaces, and benches, and is soon to be replenished with the Beaune-Semblançay fountain moved from Rue Nationale.