TOUR CESAR

The César Tower: History, Legend, and a Unique Way to Bring It to Life

Perched atop the hill overlooking the charming medieval town of Provins, in the heart of the Île-de-France region, stands the imposing César Tower. From its summit, breathtaking views unfold across the Brie plateau, revealing a landscape seemingly frozen in time.

According to legend, its origins trace back to Roman times and are even linked to none other than Julius Caesar himself. However, historical records date the tower to the 12th century, built under the rule of Henri the Liberal. It was already mentioned in a 1137 charter by Count Thibaud II as a boundary marker for the famous Champagne fairs.

Over the centuries, the tower has served many purposes: prison, refuge, military lookout, and a powerful symbol of regional authority. It has gone by many names: the King's Tower, the Great Tower, and the Prisoners' Tower.

In the 15th century, during the Hundred Years' War, the English seized the tower and fortified it with a masonry wall mockingly called "Le Pâté aux Anglais" by the locals. Later, in the 17th century, mayor François de Beaufort began its restoration, and in 1689, the bells from the Saint-Quiriace church belfry were installed.

The tower's architecture is one of a kind: it begins with a square base that transforms into an octagonal structure halfway up, flanked by four turrets. Inside, a large vaulted room once stored supplies, while the Guard Room above it served as the command center. From there, stairways lead to the lower level, the governor’s quarters, and the ramparts. Narrow passageways inside the walls take you to the old dungeons where prisoners were once held.

Today, the César Tower stands as one of Provins' most iconic monuments, in a city designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and host to unforgettable medieval performances.

And now, you can bring the César Tower home

Relive the magic of the Middle Ages by building your own miniature César Tower, piece by piece, stone by stone. This faithful, highly detailed model lets you experience history with your own hands — become the master builder of one of France’s most fascinating fortresses.
Perfect for history lovers, model enthusiasts, or as a unique gift with a medieval soul.