Balzac, honoured in Tours and Touraine An invitation to discover the literary heritage

Although Honoré de Balzac (1799 -1850) spent most of his life in Paris, he was born in Tours. And it was in the Indre valley, at the Château de Saché, that he regularly spent time. It was here that he wrote most of Père Goriot and César Birotteau. More than 220 years after the birth of this literary genius, immerse yourself in the novel of his life through various places found throughout his works.

Balzac in Tours In the footsteps of the local boy

Imagine yourself in Tours, the birthplace of the illustrious writer Honoré de Balzac. Born in 1799, he spent his early years here before leaving for Paris. But it was here, in this city steeped in history, that he drew much of his inspiration. Admire the majestic Saint-Gatien cathedral, which so impressed the writer, and stroll through the picturesque streets where every stone seems to whisper tales of yesteryear. Balzac, though a Parisian by adoption, retained a deep connection with Tours, returning regularly to recapture his childhood memories and soak up the local atmosphere.

Guided tours “In the footsteps of Balzac” are offered by the Tours Val de Loire Tourist Office.

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The Château de Saché A haven for the creative soul

Escape to the Château de Saché, a veritable haven of peace where Balzac found refuge on numerous occasions between 1828 and 1845. It was here that he wrote some of his major works, including “Le Père Goriot” and “Le Lys dans la vallée“. Stroll the paths of the “Lily of the Valley” and soak up the serenity of the surroundings. Visit the Musée Balzac, with over 2,300 exhibits, and discover theliterary and artistic treasures housed there. The Château de Saché, with its centuries-old woods and bucolic landscapes, offered Balzac an ideal setting in which to write and recharge his batteries, far from the hustle and bustle of Paris.

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©Balzac Museum Saché|ADT Touraine - JC Coutand

Around Balzac

In the Indre Valley In the footsteps of Balzac

From the Indre valley to the vineyards of Vouvray, every corner of this region is brimming with charm and authenticity. Take a cruise on the Loire aboard “La Rabouilleuse”, named after one of Balzac’s novels, and admire the châteaux lining the river. This valley, with its picturesque landscapes and charming villages, was a constant source of inspiration for Balzac, who found here the tranquillity he needed for his creative writing.

Be sure to visit the Château de Moncontour, which Balzac dreamed of acquiring, and imagine the lively conversations he might have had there.

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Honoré de Balzac Park A green oasis in the middle of the city

For a relaxing break with the whole family, head to the Parc Honoré de Balzac in Tours. This 24-hectare park, framed by the banks of the River Cher, is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Take advantage of the children’s play areas, stroll along the shady paths and enjoy a picnic in the heart of nature. The park is an invitation to relax and contemplate, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Honoré de Balzac park is a must for families, offering a multitude of activities and moments of relaxation right in the heart of Tours.

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In a nutshell on Balzac and Touraine

Balzac and ToursA love story

Balzac, born in Tours, drew his inspiration from the city.

Château de SachéCreative refuge

Balzac wrote some major works here.

Indre ValleySource of inspiration

The landscapes of Touraine influenced his writing.

Some novels by Honoré de Balzac, a ferocious chronicler of society and the world, a perfect witness to his century: Les Chouans, Eugénie Grandet, Le Colonel Chabert, Le Père Goriot, La peau de chagrin, Le contrat de mariage, La Cousine Bette, La vieille fille, Les illusions perdues…