The Donjon of Vez:
History, Architecture, Art & Nature

A few miles from Villers-Cotterêts stands the Donjon de Vez, an imposing fortress classified as Monument Historique as early as 1906 towering over the Automne valley. Located at an altitude of 110 meters above sea level, Vez's strategic position made it a military outpost during the Roman empire (I-V century AD), the capital of the Valois for 5 centuries and then a strategic stronghold during the Hundred Years War (1337-1453), fortified by Louis d'Orléans in 1386 and hosting Joan of Arc in 1430 shortly before her arrest in Compiègne in 1431.

An essential part of the French heritage due to its history and well-preserved architecture, the Donon de Vez became in 1987 a location dedicated to Contemporary creation. Keeping with the ideas of Léon Dru, owner of the Donjon in the 19th century who hired Gustave Eiffel and Emmanuel Frémiet to decorate the site, the current owner has gathered the greatest contemporary artists around the Donjon since 1987. Its minimalist garden - designed by Pascal Cribier and labeled Jardin Remarquable - hosts a collection of monumental artwork, and its sculptures park, alternating undergrowths and clearings, invites to the discovery of pieces of art nested in nature or echoing its feodal architecture.

News

 

European Heritage Days 2024

12 September 2024
On the occasion of the European Heritage Days, on September 21 and 22, 2024, admission to the Donjon de Vez will be free for all visitors aged 20 and under. Take advantage of this opportunity to explore this exceptional historic site!
 

The Donjon de Vez will reopen on Saturday the 25th of May !

15 February 2024
Winter is coming to an end and we are pleased to announce that the Donjon de Vez will reopen to the public on Saturday the 25th of May 2024 ! In May, the Donjon will be open on Saturday 25 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM and Sunday 26 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. …
 

Winter closure

29 October 2023
Autumn is here and the 2023 season is coming to an end… The Donjon de Vez is closing for the winter and will reopen in the spring of 2024. We would like to thank all of our visitors, and look forward to welcoming you again next year !