Chateau d Amboise

About

Originally a medieval fortress, in the 15th century the estate was seized by Charles VII and transformed into a royal residence. It was Charles VIII who ordered the castle’s remodelling, first in the Flamboyant Gothic style, and then Italian Renaissance. In the 17th century the chateau fell into decline, experiencing years of abandonment, use as a prison, and near destruction during the French Revolution. Today, the impressive estate is still only about ⅕ its original size. Visitors can stroll the grounds and gardens to admire the Gothic and Italian architecture, and enjoy the panoramic views offered by its elevated position. Inside, several centuries of French history are catalogued through the fully furnished rooms of some of the country’s most influential figures, and even pay a visit to da Vinci’s tomb. Even the sparsely furnished halls remind visitors of the chateau’s rich past, with ornate decorative elements adorning the walls, ceilings, columns, and cavernous fireplaces.