Baugé

Baugé, now part of Baugé-en-Anjou, is a town in the Maine-et-Loire department of western France, situated between the Loire and Loir valleys. This area, historically known as Anjou, offers a blend of medieval character and tranquil countryside. The town itself is a captivating destination, inviting visitors to wander through its historic neighborhoods, explore its significant architectural heritage, and discover the natural beauty of the surrounding region.

Baugé-en-Anjou is recognized as a "Petite Cité de Caractère" (Small Town of Character), a label that speaks to its preserved architecture and authentic atmosphere. It serves as an ideal base for exploring the wider Loire Valley and its famous châteaux, while offering a more intimate and less crowded experience. From its thousand-year-old origins to its present-day appeal, Baugé presents a compelling journey through history, art, and nature.

## From Fortress to Royal Residence Baugé's origins trace back to the early 11th century when Fulk III Nerra, the formidable Count of Anjou, ordered the construction of a fortress. This strategic stronghold was built on a rocky spur at the confluence of the Couasnon and Altrée rivers, intended to secure the eastern borders of his territory against powerful neighbors. While no trace of Fulk Nerra's original complex remains today, the site laid the foundation for the town's future.

The town played a significant role in the Hundred Years' War. In 1421, the Battle of Vieil-Baugé saw a decisive victory for Franco-Scottish troops over the English cavalry, marking the English's first defeat since 1415. Later, in 1436, Duchess Yolande of Aragon, to prevent its capture by the English, made the difficult decision to burn down the existing citadel.

Her son, René I of Anjou, often called the "Good King René," inherited the ruins in 1454. Between 1454 and 1465, he commissioned the construction of a new castle, the Château de Baugé, which became one of his favored residences. This pre-Renaissance castle, designed by architect Guillaume Robin, was primarily a hunting lodge, reflecting René's love for the chase and the arts. After René's death in 1480, Anjou was annexed to the French Crown.

In the 16th century, Baugé was authorized to be fortified by King Francis I, leading to the construction of ramparts and watchtowers, though only portions remain today. The town developed as an administrative center, attracting nobility who built grand townhouses. The 17th century saw the establishment of religious communities and charitable institutions, including the Hôtel-Dieu, which housed a remarkable apothecary. Over the centuries, the Château de Baugé saw various uses, from cavalry barracks and town hall to a theater and museum, undergoing significant restoration from the 1960s onward.

Begin your exploration at the Château de Baugé, a 15th-century castle that was a favored residence of King René of Anjou. Inside, a sound-and-light tour in the attic illuminates the life of King René, and an immersive experience allows visitors to imagine royal banquets and explore a reconstructed forest. The castle also houses the Baugé Museum of Art and History.

Adjacent to the castle, the Hôtel-Dieu invites discovery. This former medieval hospital, established in 1650, features a remarkably preserved 17th-century apothecary, considered one of the finest in France, with over 600 jars and pharmacy pots. You can also visit the historic ward where patients were treated and a baroque chapel.

Do not overlook the True Cross of Anjou, a revered relic displayed in the Chapel of La Girouardière. It is said to contain a piece of the cross on which Christ was crucified, brought back by 13th-century crusaders. For a glimpse into local architectural quirks, seek out the twisted spires of churches in nearby villages like Le Vieil-Baugé and Pontigné.

Beyond the town center, the Chandelais Forest offers extensive hiking trails, providing a natural escape. You can also find the Dolmen of "La Pierre Couverte" in Pontigné.

The ideal time to visit Baugé-en-Anjou for pleasant weather and outdoor activities stretches from mid-June to mid-September. During these months, temperatures are typically warm, with July being the warmest month, averaging highs of 77°F (25°C) and lows of 57°F (14°C). Skies are often clearest in July. May and September also offer comfortable conditions for exploring.

Baugé is located approximately 40 km east of Angers and 70 km from Tours. While there are no direct train services to Baugé, bus connections are available from SNCF railway stations in nearby Saumur, Angers, La Flèche, and Le Mans. The closest airport is Angers – Loire Airport, with Tours Loire Valley Airport also within reasonable driving distance.

Once in Baugé, the town center is walkable, and the tourist office, located inside the Château de Baugé, provides maps for a self-guided walking tour. For exploring the wider Baugé-en-Anjou area, a car is recommended. Accommodation options include hotels and guesthouses. Local cuisine to try includes plum pie, bottereaux (a type of sausage), and gouline (a local specialty).