Last admission: 45 minutes before closing
Fast Track
Wheelchair accessible
Immerse yourself in Voltaire's spirit at Château de Voltaire à Ferney, home to the famed writer for 20 years. See some of his own work, plus sculptures and art collections. Get the history on this legendary man of many talents, and explore a chapel, an orangery, and beautiful gardens.
"Our wretched species is so made that those who walk on the well-trodden path always throw stones at those who are showing a new road." – Words of wisdom from the man himself to consider as you forge your own path through Château de Voltaire.
This is the place where the French Enlightenment writer, historian, and philosopher Voltaire spent the last 20 years of his life.
While best-known for his literary prowess, Voltaire wasn't afraid to get his hands dirty. As well as writing some 6,000 letters, his Philosophical Dictionary, his Treatise on Tolerance, and several tragedies here, Voltaire rebuilt the castle entirely from 1758! He landscaped the grounds himself and transformed the whole town of Ferney in the process.
As town planner and patron of the arts, Voltaire's busy social and literary life saw him staging dramatic works here, and playing host to an array of distinguished guests from all over Europe. Don't miss the gardens, which still feature original 19th-century touches like the orangery, the keeper's lodge, and the chapel!
