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 was originally buried in the great collegiate church of Saint Florentin, located in the heart of the château. Since 1874, he has been laid to rest in the Saint-Hubert chapel, considered one of the masterpieces of the flamboyant Gothic style. After more than two and a half years of restoration work, the chapel has reopened its doors to visitors. Its bell, mute for 150 years, its spire and gilding, its framework and its 18th and 19th century stained glass windows. The sculpted decorations depicting intertwined plants and animals have been majestically restored. The superb 16th-century tufa lintel, with its highly detailed figures and animals, has been restored to its full whiteness and luminosity: there are many small features to discover.

The richly furnished royal dwelling has recently been enriched 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, especially in summer: nightly candlelit tours, a tour under the château, festivals, concerts and evening shows in costume, garden breakfasts, panoramic picnics in the gardens... Breathtaking!