Loire Valley Castles : The King's Road
CHAMBORD
This marvelous chateau began its construction under Francois I in 1519 and was completed until much later by Henri II, Charles IX and Henri III. 1800 - 2000 men worked on the construction during Francois I. Though this castle went through many owners, nobody actually made this place a permanent resident. Francois I himself lived in this place for 6 months. It was mainly used by the kings as for retreat or as a hunting lodge. There are no official records as to who the architect was. Legend has it that Leonardo da Vinci, then living at the Clos Lucé in Amboise, made several plans and models used for the construction of the chateau. It also has an extremely close tie to some of the projects by Domenico da Cortona, and Italian architect. During the reign of Louis XIV, the famous play by Moliere, Monsieur de Pourceaugnac and Le bourgeois Gentilhomme were first produced here.
AMBOISE - The cradle of the Renaissance
One of the first truly "royal" residences of its kind, chateau Amboise was built during the 15th and the 16th centuries on the orders of Charles VIII, Louis XII and François 1. Following in the footsteps of the great kings of France, you will discover a magnificent example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Today, the Chateau still houses an exceptional collection of furniture which has been admirably preserved.
CHENONCEAU - The ladies Castle
By building chateau Chenonceau on the Cher river in the 1513, Thomas Bohier razed the castle-keep and the FORTIFIED MILL of the Marques family only keeping the dungeon. It is sad that he never managed to see the finished castle and was completed by his wife and son. Later, it became crown property. Henri II offered this castle to his favourite, Diane de Poitiers. She then decided to have a bridge built, linking the castle to the right bank of the river. This was done by Philibert de l'Orne, the resident achitect.
Following the death of Henri II, Catherine de Medicis took over the ruling and forced Diane de Poitieirs to return the chateau Chenonceau to crown. During her reign and as the Queen mother, Catherine commissioned a great gallery to be built on the bridge.
Admissions and lunch with wine included.
THIS TOUR WILL NOT BE CONDUCTED ON DECEMBER 24TH, 25TH, 31ST AND JANUARY 1ST
Season: All Year Round
Scheduled Days: Tuesdays & Sundays.
(No minimum passenger required)
Daily departure available with a minimum of 6 passengers.
Departures: From 6.30 am
Duration: Approximately 12 hours
Prices: 300$ Adults, 280$ Children (4 to 10 years old)
Pick up point: From your accommodation in Paris
Return point: To your accommodation in Paris
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