Can we visit the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy?

Yes. Part of the château can be explored at your leisure via the château museum, which is open free of charge all year round. To visit the historic areas, the Sainte-Chapelle or the Grand Carillon, you must join a guided tour.

Is admission to the castle museum free?

Yes, admission to the castle museum is completely free. It offers visitors the chance to discover the history of the castle and the House of Savoy through an exhibition tour set up in the medieval wing.

Why is the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy famous?

Formerly the residence of the Counts and Dukes of Savoy, it served as the political heart of the States of Savoy for several centuries. It is also home to the Sainte-Chapelle, the Grand Carillon and the castle’s new museum.

Was the Shroud kept at the castle?

Yes. Between 1502 and 1578, the Shroud of Turin was kept in the Sainte-Chapelle at the château before being transferred to Turin.

Can we see the Grand Carillon?

Yes, but only as part of the ‘Visite privilège – Grand Carillon’ guided tour, which gives you access to the bell tower and the chance to explore this exceptional instrument, comprising 70 bells.

Why do we talk about Savoy cake at the castle?

According to tradition, the famous Savoy cake is said to have been created in 1358 by the pastry chef Pierre de Yenne for a banquet held at the castle at the request of Count Amadeus VI of Savoy.

How long should I allow for the visit?

Allow around 45 minutes to an hour to explore the castle museum at your own pace. If you opt for a guided tour, allow around 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on the route you choose.

The Castle of the Dukes of Savoy The castle that shaped Savoy

Overlooking the historic centre of Chambéry for more than eight centuries, the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Formerly the residence of the Counts and later the Dukes of Savoy, it recounts a key chapter in the region’s history through its buildings, its Sainte-Chapelle, its Grand Carillon and the many anecdotes associated with the site.

The residence of the Dukes of Savoy

Built in the 13th century, the castle quickly became the seat of power for the House of Savoy when Chambéry was chosen as the capital of the States of Savoy.

Over the centuries, the rulers expanded and embellished the estate, transforming the castle into a veritable princely palace where the duchy’s major political decisions were taken. Even after the capital was moved to Turin in the 16th century, the castle retained a major administrative role. Even today, it houses the offices of the Prefecture and the Department of Savoy.

The Sainte-Chapelle, a jewel of Savoyard heritage

Built in the early 15th century at the behest of Duke Amadeus VIII, the Sainte-Chapelle is the princely chapel of the Dukes of Savoy. For several centuries, it was the venue for the dynasty’s major events: weddings, baptisms and funeral ceremonies.

Between 1502 and 1578, it also housed the precious Shroud of Turin, before it was transferred to Turin.

In 1532, a fire destroyed much of its Gothic décor. In the 19th century, the Piedmontese painter Casimir Vicario created a spectacular neo-Gothic trompe-l’œil vault. At first glance, one might think one is admiring carved stone architecture, whereas it is in fact a remarkable feat of painting.

A place of power but also of music, the Sainte-Chapelle has resounded for over five centuries with the songs and music of the ducal chapels.

Even today, its impressive organ provides the musical backdrop to concerts and celebrations beneath the vaults of this jewel of Savoyard heritage.

The Grand Carillon, The Voice of Chambéry

From the top of the Sainte-Chapelle’s bell tower, the notes of the Grand Carillon can sometimes be heard.

Cast in 1993 by the Savoyard foundry Paccard, it comprises 70 bells, making it the 7th largest carillon in the world. Its exceptional acoustic qualities make it one of the most remarkableinstruments in Europe.
On certain guided tours, visitors can climb the steps of the tower to explore this bronze giant and enjoy a unique panoramic view over the rooftops of Chambéry.

The history of the Savoy cake

Legend has it that in 1358, Count Amadeus VI of Savoy wished to impress his distinguished guest, Emperor Charles IV of Luxembourg, whom he was hosting at the castle.

He therefore asked his pastry chef, Pierre de Yenne, to create an exceptional dessert. By beating the eggs and sugar for a long time before gently folding in the stiffly beaten egg whites, he is said to have created the famous Savoy cake, renowned for its lightness. A delicacy that has becomeone of the region’s iconic specialities…even if, according to legend, it was not enough to reconcile the two powerful figures.

The castle museum Free self-guided tour

It is now possible to explore part of the castle’s history at your own pace thanks to the new castle museum, housed inthe medieval wing.

This tour, which is completely free of charge, traces the key stages in the monument’s history, from its origins as a medieval fortress to its role as the residence of the Dukes of Savoy, before becoming the seat of the Savoyard institutions.

Artifacts, models, interactive displays and exhibition spaces offer a deeper understanding of the castle’s development and the major role it played in the history of Savoy.

Explore the castle museum

Go one step further with a guided tour

City of the Dukes & Sainte-Chapelle

This tour is ideal for a first glimpse of Chambéry. It takes you through the narrow streets of the historic centre before leading you into the Sainte-Chapelle, the castle’s true jewel.

Sainte-Chapelle & Castle

Come and explore the historic areas of the château, the Sainte-Chapelle and several rooms that are usually closed to the public. Immerse yourself in the history of the House of Savoy and its former capital.

Exclusive Tour – Grand Carillon

A unique tour offering access to the Grand Carillon and its impressive set of 70 bells. After climbing the tower, visitors are rewarded with a unique panoramic view of Chambéry.

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ART PRISM - Grand Chambéry Alpes Tourisme

Listen to the history of the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy

The history of the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy is not limited to its walls. In an episode of the Chambéry Cimes podcast, discover the highlights ofthe former residence of the Dukes of Savoy, the Sainte-Chapelle, the Grand Carillon and the anecdotes that have shaped this iconic monument in Chambéry.