The Chateau of Amboise

The Chateau of Amboise is counted to be among the first French Castles and Royal residences. It took two centuries for it to be constructed, starting at the 15th century and finishing at the 17th, acquiring a combination of different styles within its structure. Built on a promontory overlooking the Loire River to control a strategic ford that was replaced in the Middle Ages by a bridge, the château began its life in the eleventh century. Many visitors approach the chateau of Amboise attracted by the fact that it is said that Leonardo da Vinci's body was buried at the chapel.

Ville d’Indre et Loire, Amboise est édifiée au confluent de la Loire et de la Masse. En 2000, Amboise compte 11, 968 habitants qu'on appelle des Amboisiens. Son château résulte de la reconstruction fastueuse par Charles VIII d’une forteresse antérieure qui s’élève sur un escarpement propice à la défense. Avant d'être rattaché à la couronne en 1434, le château appartenait, depuis plus de quatre siècles, à la puissante famille d'Amboise. Pendant la Renaissance, il sert de résidence à plusieurs rois de France.
Il a été en grande partie détruit après la Révolution.

Due to the important amount of time it took for it to be finished, the construction of Amboise's Castle went through the reign of different kings. This way, it went through the orders of Charles VIII, Louis XII and Francois I. By walking around and meeting this Chateau, visitors can clearly observe a combination of elements typical from the Renaissance époque and some others from a Gothic style. This combination of styles and the way they are mixed gives this castle a very attractive appearance for all those who are interested in architecture and art.

Le Château royal d’Amboise vous accueille tous les jours de l’année (à l’exception du 1er janvier et du 25 décembre). Ce monument emblématique et ses jardins paysagers offre un des plus remarquables panoramas sur la vallée de la Loire, classée au Patrimoine mondial par l’Unesco.
Chaque parcours de visite porte un regard singulier sur ce haut-lieu de l’Histoire de France : son rayonnement politique et artistique européen à la Renaissance ; les moments intimes de la vie des souverains ; la vie quotidienne et les coulisses de la Cour.

The Chateau of Amboise was one of the first truly "royal" residences. Built on a rocky outcrop above the town, the castle has a very defensive site with its tall walls and was accessed by two towers with ramped spirals to the courtyard. This enabled horses and carriages to be brought up into the castle.

This chateau is located within the very charming environment of Amboise's area. Within this spot and its surroundings visitors can easily access different interesting places by simply walking due to the short distances separating one place from the other. Amboise has narrow streets which are ideal for those who enjoy walking.