As one of the main residences of French Royalty, Château d’Amboise is intrinsically linked to the history of France. It is one of the finest architectural marvels that you’ll ever come across. Brimming with romance and boasting a rich past, this castle in France sits comfortably on its ledge overlooking the town of Amboise and the River Loire. It provides great views for the tourists who visit it in hoards every year. Let’s take a look at its history and how it fares today:
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Leonardo da Vinci’s first resting place was supposed to be in a small chapel located on the castle grounds. The chapel was demolished so the remains had to be moved to the nearby St. Hubert Chapel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Château d’Amboise Located?
Tucked in the Loire Valley, sitting on a ledge in the town of Amboise, Château d’Amboise enjoys uninterrupted views of the town and the River Loire. It’s a very strategic location that was chosen because of its great vantage point and solid defense.
When was Château d’Amboise Built? Who Build It?
Château d’Amboise was initially built and expanded by the Counts of Anjou. It was eventually seized by the French Monarchy in retribution for plotting against the crown.
When is The Best Time to Visit the Castle?
June till August is the best timeframe to visit the château. Visiting hours are extended and you get more time to explore the grounds at your leisure.
What Other Monuments are Located Nearby?
The town of Amboise is full of picturesque locations. If you have some time on your hands, you can pay a visit to the local tea room Pâtisserie Bigot or the Château du Clos Lucé – Parc Leonardo da Vinci.
FOR HISTORY | BEAUTIFUL IMAGES | INTERESTING FACTS | TRAVEL TIPS
Early History
The Counts of Anjou (9th Century Onwards)
The eminent history of Château d’Amboise can be traced back to when it was the site of a Gaelic fortress. It eventually went to Ingelgarious (a Frankish nobleman) who married Adelais, a woman belonging to a family of bishops and archbishops who were in possession of the Château at the time.
Over the years, the castle passed down from one heir of their bloodline to another, until one of them (Fulk the Red) expanded the territory throughout the province of Anjou (thus the title: Counts of Anjou). He also made expansions to the castle’s architecture and his descendants continued to live there until it was captured by Charles VII after Louis d’Amboise was caught plotting treason.
Under French Rule (15th Century Onwards)
Charles VIII
Château d’Amboise became quite a favorite of the French royals once they came into possession of it. They made many architectural additions to it through the years, starting with Charles VIII adding Gothic and Renaissance-style ministrations to the elevation by hiring the finest builders. He even brought in Italian artisans, sculptors, painters, and architects to initiate the Italianate movement by having them tweak the architecture of the castle this way. Charles spent his life making the Château a true architectural marvel and even died in its service … by tragically hitting his head on the door lintel and falling into a coma.
Louise XII
King Louis XII took it upon himself to continue Charles’ work when he succeeded. He initiated the construction of a gallery around the terrace built by Charles.
Francis I
Château d’Amboise was the home of Francis I, so when he became the King, the chateau thrived in all its glory. It was during his reign that Leonardo da Vinci came and stayed as a guest at the Chateau. Francis also commissioned Italian artists to decorate the interiors with beautiful paintings.
The Amboise Conspiracy (1560)
One of the darkest periods in the history of Château d’Amboise was during the French Wars of Religion when it was discovered that the Protestants were plotting against Francois II. Around 1200 Protestants attacked the castle; the attempt was not successful due to poor organization.
What followed was one of the bloodiest massacres in the history of the world. All the conspirators were brutally decapitated and even hung from the walls of the castle.
The Desolation of Château d’Amboise
The Château all but fell into ruin in the 17th century. It was also used as a prison, taking damage after the French Revolution. It was in such a desolate condition that military leader Napoleon Bonaparte commissioned an actual engineering assessment of its structure. Several parts of the chateau were demolished as a result.
Château d’Amboise was declared a historic monument in the nineteenth century and attempts were made to restore it to its former glory. However, everything was put on halt after King Louis-Philippe’s abdication.
Revisit More Historic Places Below or Read Further
Current Times
Today, Château d’Amboise is still possessed by Louis-Philippe’s descendents. They promote the castle as a desirable tourist destination and work on its maintenance. The structure that we see today is five times smaller than the original, but even today, the intricate Gothic and Renaissance detailing of the château remains intact.
History buffs would really appreciate the collection of gorgeous tapestries and renaissance furniture in the interior. One can tour the royal apartments inside. The gardens are always open for a visit.
Interesting Château d’Amboise Facts
- Leonardo da Vinci’s first resting place was supposed to be in a small chapel located on the castle grounds. The chapel was demolished so the remains had to be moved to the nearby St. Hubert Chapel.
- One of the queens of Scotland, Mary Stuart, was supposed to marry Francois II She resided at Château d’Amboise for a while.
- Nicolas Fouquet, the famous minister who fell out of favor, was held at the château while it was being used as a prison.
- Algerian religious revolutionary Emir Abd al Qadir was also held at the château, where he was visited by Napoleon to announce his release.
Visiting Château d’Amboise – Tips and Tricks
As one of the key monuments of French history, Château d’Amboise is a must-visit for anyone who loves romance in architecture. Now’s a great time to plan a visit, and here are some helpful tips that will make things easier:
How to get to Château d’Amboise?
With the university town of Tours as your central point, there are four ways that you can travel to Château d’Amboise. First is via the train, it will cost you €4-€16 ($5-$19 USD), with a time frame of 35 minutes. You can also take the C bus, which will get you there in an hour for just €3.40 ($4 USD). A taxi ride might cost you €55-€68 ($65-$80 USD) and will get you there in just 23 minutes. Or you could take your own car with an overall cost of €2.50-$4 ($3-$5 USD).
Ticket Prices, Visiting Hours & Travel Tips
Information was checked & updated on October 16, 2023.
You can visit the château anywhere between 9 am to 6:30 pm during the months of June, July, and August. Visiting hours are reduced for the rest of the year.
Ticket prices for Château d’Amboise vary from age to age. For adults, it’s €15.50 ($16 USD) and for children above 6, it costs €9.30 ($10 USD), for students €12.20 ($13 . Kids below 6 can enter free of cost.
How Long Will It Take to Tour Around?
It can take you anywhere between an hour or two to leisurely explore Château d’Amboise.
Up to Date Information
For up to date ticket prices and visiting hours visit the official website: https://www.chateau-amboise.com/en/page-informations-pratiques
Some words of advice and tips:
- Don’t forget to enjoy the views of the city atop the ledge while strolling through the gardens.
- If you’re visiting with family, you can even set up a picnic overlooking the views of the city.
- If you get hungry or thirsty, there’s a little coffee shop there for your convenience.
