Amboise Castle

Castle Amboise is one of the architectural masterpieces not only in France but probably in the world. Located in the bosom of the medieval castles in the Loire River valley on the coast, Amboise is one of the most interesting and popular tourist attractions in this part of central France. The castle is located next to the town, which is a popular tourist center and famous for its house-museum of Leonardo da Vinci where he lived during the last three years of his life.

The historical texts refer to the fort site Amboise during the middle of the sixth century. Around the beginning of the 12th century the castle functions as an impressive fief of the counts of Anjou. In 1231 the fortress was declared part of the royal domain of Charles VII. From that moment Amboise became a royal residence, Charles VIII was born heir to the King.

He started an ambitious reconstruction of Amboise. To provide money to build the castle the king levies increased salt. Admiring Florentine the ambassadors say Amboise is more like a palace than a fortress. According to the plans submitted, the area occupied by the royal residence was to be expanded.

At the site the medieval castle is an tetragonal molded architectural trapezoidal shape. It is divided into three yards. The most interesting architectural innovation are the two round towers. In the decoration of Amboise Castle the initial prevalence is the French style and then later an enriched supply of Flemish elements were added.

Following the return of Charles VIII to the military campaigns in 1495 included in the complex were the Italian decorative elements. The castle was furnished magnificently with the most exquisite furniture, tapestries from Flanders, with carpets and draperies from the Orient. Gardens of Amboise were rebuilt and expanded by a famous Italian gardener. Construction works of the fortress were the conversion of residence worthy of the King were suddenly interrupted by a tragic accident.

Now the walk in Amboise Castle is a favorite activity of many Frenchmen. The place is extremely quiet, and definitely has a lot to offer to its visitors including the turbulent history through the ages, accompanied by amazing pieces of art. Today part of the authentic furniture in the castle is preserved along with amazing tapestries that adorn the walls of most rooms.