Chateau Amboise

Impressive and refined, the Château d’Amboise is situated on a ridge overhanging the valley. Besides being a royal residence, it is also known for its Saint Hubert chapel, a masterpiece of extravagant gothic architecture, which houses the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci.

Before it was associated with the crown in 1434, the castle belonged to the House of Amboise for over four centuries. During the Renaissance, it served as the residence of several Kings of France. The son of Louis XI, Charles VIII, who was raised in the region, appreciated the relaxed way of life in Touraine and made it his preferred home. With a passion for Italian culture, he invited many Italian artists to Amboise, who completely transformed the castle into the style of the Renaissance. He also called on an Italian horticulturist to improve the gardens. Other features were created by French artists.

St. Hubert's Chapel

Burial place of Leonardo da Vinci

Several successive Kings would extend the castle, which became a centre of power and intellectual and worldly living. Its renowned library was even the breeding place for the Bibliothèque nationale (the National Library). Louis XII invited Leonardo da Vinci to stay in the Château du Clos Lucé (the Castle of Clos Lucé), close to the royal residence. An historical centre, Amboise notably provided a backdrop for the Conspiracy of Amboise, which was a prelude to the religious wars.

I loved the details in the carving of this chapel.  The theme is taken though out the chateau as well.

Leonardo da Vinci is buried on site in Saint Hubert's Chapel.  He lived out the last three years of his life down the street in Chateau du Clos Luce which was connected by a tunnel to the chateau.  King Frances I of France invited him to stay in Amboise and visited him often, spending hours at a time with him.  The King was fascinated by his knowledge and they became close friends.

Inside the chapel

Tunnel connecting the chateau with Chateau du Clos Luce. There are several tunnels connecting noble houses with the chateau.  In times of war raids the nobles would flee via the tunnels to the chateau for protection. 

The Chateau overlooks the town of Amboise and the river. 

The chateau used to be much bigger with various building inside the walls, but it was largely destroyed under the first empire.  There is a great ramp in the tower which was used by the Kings to enter the chateau in their carriage and go up and into the grounds of the chateau.

The great hall done in the gothic style.  Notice the detail on the pillars and fireplace.

This was a beautiful chateau and really one of the more simpler ones.  It costs 10.70 Euro to enter and  during the summer there is a show at night featuring live actors.  Unfortunately, we missed the show by one night.