Urban exploration, or urbex , is an exciting activity that allows you to discover abandoned or inaccessible places. The department of Indre-et-Loire, located in the Centre-Val de Loire region, offers many fascinating sites for urbex enthusiasts. This article presents five must-see sites in Indre-et-Loire, each offering a unique and captivating adventure.
1: The Castle of La Mothe-Chandeniers
History and Importance The Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers is a magnificent 13th-century castle, known for its romantic architecture and tumultuous history. Abandoned after a fire in 1932, it is today an emblematic site for urbex enthusiasts.
Site Features
- Architecture: Neo-Gothic style, towers, moats and magnificent facades.
- State of Disrepair: Partially in ruins, but some parts are well preserved.
- Access: Access is currently prohibited to the public, but guided tours are sometimes organized.
2: The Abandoned Hospital of Tours
A Medical Vestige The old hospital of Tours , closed for several decades, is a fascinating site for urbex enthusiasts with its vast treatment rooms and abandoned medical equipment.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Hospital buildings, treatment rooms and medical equipment.
- State of Disrepair: Largely in ruins, some structures remain accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and precaution.
3: The Abandoned House of Loches
A Forgotten Place of Life The abandoned house of Loches is a former bourgeois residence, offering an immersion in a bygone past with its furniture and objects left intact.
Site Features
- Architecture: Bourgeois houses, furniture and personal objects.
- State of Disrepair: Some rooms are well preserved, others in ruins.
- Access: Access is free, but requires caution and respect for the premises.
4: The Abandoned Factory of Chinon
An Industrial Vestige The old Chinon factory is an abandoned industrial site offering a fascinating setting with its vast workshops and deserted machines.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Production workshops, offices and industrial equipment.
- State of Disrepair: Largely in ruins, some structures are still accessible.
- Access: Access requires caution and preparation, as some areas may be unstable.
5: The Abandoned Village of Preuilly-sur-Claise
A Place Out of Time The abandoned village of Preuilly-sur-Claise is a collection of deserted houses offering a total immersion in a bygone past, perfect for urban explorers.
Site Features
- Architecture: Stone houses, church and other village buildings.
- State of Disrepair: Some houses are still standing, others are in ruins.
- Access: Access is free, but requires a hike to get there.
Conclusion
Indre-et-Loire offers a multitude of fascinating urbex sites for urban exploration enthusiasts. From the romantic castle of La Mothe-Chandeniers to the abandoned hospital of Tours, the abandoned house of Loches and the deserted factory of Chinon, each place offers a unique adventure. By respecting the safety rules and the properties, you can experience memorable explorations and discover the hidden treasures of this department. Happy exploring!
