ROYAL CASTLE OF AMBOISE

Built in the ^15th and ^16th centuries, the château became part of the French crown in 1431. For almost two centuries, it was intimately linked to the great History of France, and witnessed many significant historical events. Built by King Charles VIII and his wife Anne of Brittany between 1492 and 1497, it was then the residence of the young François d'Angoulême, the future King François ^I. The latter had a great influence on the château and the town, and left his mark on the Renaissance period and style. In particular, he ordered the raising of the royal dwelling. It was also at his invitation that the famous Italian painter and engineer Leonardo da Vinci came to Amboise. He spent the last three years of his life here, before passing away "in the king's arms", according to legend. This legend was painted by François-Guillaume Ménageot, and is on display at the château. The Italian genius is laid to rest in the Chapelle Saint-Hubert, considered one of the masterpieces of the flamboyant Gothic style. The reopening of the chapel to the public in spring 2024, after two years of renovation work, will enable visitors to rediscover this jewel. The roof and framework, weakened by the spire added after the chapel was built, have had to be repaired. An exceptional and educational project, since it was decided to use only traditional techniques: no mechanized tools here, just the expertise of skilled craftsmen. Carpenters, glassmakers, plumbers, stonemasons... These demanding trades enable visitors to rediscover or better understand ancestral techniques.
The richly furnished royal dwelling has recently enriched its collections with a variety of works of art, dating from the ^14th to the ^19th century. You can also use the HistoPad to explore the rooms of the château during the Renaissance period. A fun tour that's sure to please children! Please note that guided tours are offered continuously throughout the summer, at no extra charge. Finally, at the top of the château, you'll have the privilege of discovering a unique 360-degree panorama of the Loire Valley, listed as a World Heritage Site by Unesco.
Numerous events are also on offer, particularly in summer: an immersive podcast investigation, nightly candlelit tours, workshops on the renovation of the Saint-Hubert chapel, a tour under the château, festivals, concerts and evening shows in costume, picnics in the gardens... Stunning!