Discover the evolution and diversity of the French language and culture at the International City of the French Language.
Highlights
Highlights
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Learn about the chronology of French, from its Gallo-Roman origins to its contemporary global spread at the International City of the French Language.
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Step into Château de Villers-Cotterêts, where King Francis I decreed French as the official language, and partake in workshops tailored to French enthusiasts.
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Immerse in interactive exhibitions about the language's evolution and its global impact with multimedia displays, artworks, and rare documents.
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Did you know? The castle was built sometime around 950AD and had been burnt down twice before being rebuilt in the 12th century.
Inclusions
Inclusions
- Entry to International City of the French Language
Cancellation policy
Cancellation policy
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Your experience
Your experience
Francophone legacy unveiled
Step into the Château de Villers-Cotterêts and be whisked away to the days of King Francis I, who etched French as the nation's official language. Within its walls, the International City of the French Language offers an insightful exhibition. Traverse the castle, from "Un château, un territoire" to its expansive wings, unraveling the rich tapestry of the French language’s history, peppered with multimedia narratives and the iconic 1539 ordinance by François I.
Creativity meets innovation
The language center doesn't just rest on past laurels; it pulses with contemporary Francophone culture. Diverse exhibitions, arts, and events celebrate the language's modern-day vibrancy. Engage in language training sessions, explore the innovative research lab, or simply relax with Francophone literature at the café-tea room or bookstore.
Operating hours
Operating hours
Know before you go
Know before you go
What's not allowed
- Flash photography is not allowed.
Accessibility
- This experience is wheelchair, pram, and stroller accessible.
Additional information
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Facilities: Lockers, Changing Rooms.
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Free entry: The first Sunday of January, February, March, November, and December and during European Heritage Days (3rd weekend of September each year).
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Entry is free for anyone under the age of 18 years, and for European Union nationals or non-EU residents in France aged between 18 and 25 years (an ID is necessary).
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Entry is free for disabled guests with an accompanying adult, jobseekers (on presentation of a certificate less than 6 months old), and holders of a valid education pass.
My tickets
My tickets
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Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the redemption point.
Ticket Redemption Point
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Show your ticket at International city of the French language - Château de Villers-Cotterêts.
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Address: 1 Pl. Aristide Briand, 02600 Villers-Cotterêts, France.
Get Directions to the Redemption Point
Getting There
By Train
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The closest train station is Villers-Cotterêts. It is a quick 10-minute walk to the redemption point.
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Board train TER to get you there.
By Car
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If you are driving towards the attraction, take route via N2 & via A4 and N2 from Paris. It is approximately 90-minute drive to the attraction.
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It's always a good idea to check a map or GPS navigation system for updated directions before starting your journey.