Accueil Discover The Loire Châteaux The royal château of Amboise
THE ROYAL CHÂTEAU OF AMBOISE: A SUMPTUOUS BALCONY OVER THE LOIRE
Built on a rocky outcrop, the Royal Château of Amboise majestically surveys the Loire. The château became a royal residence at the start of the Renaissance and was the first to introduce the Italian taste to the Loire Valley thanks to King Charles VIII, who built it. The work was continued with enthusiasm by King Francis I, with the help of the Tuscan genius Leonardo da Vinci, who is buried in the château’s chapel. Today, visitors can discover the château during an unforgettable visit that will reveal all the secrets of this sumptuous building and true gem of a château!
THE ROYAL CHÂTEAU OF AMBOISE: A STORY THAT STARTED IN ANTIQUITY
Ever since prehistoric times, the rocky outcrop of Amboise and its exceptional views have offered many advantages for those who settled there. The site was quickly fortified and entered history books in the 5th century after the battle between Clovis and the Visigoth King Alaric. First a residence then a barracks for campaign veterans after the Revolution, the Royal Château of Amboise has seen all the major events in the history of France. Its decor from the early French Renaissance period has welcomed many a prestigious guest who left their mark!
JC Coutand – ADT Touraine
In the 15th and 16th centuries, the Royal Château of Amboise had a special status as the favourite residence of the Kings of France and a place to bring up their children. It was the childhood home of Francis I and it was during the latter’s reign that the Royal Château of Amboise reached the height of its glory. Several years later, the children of King Henry II and his wife Catherine de’ Medici were brought up here, and Louis XIV and Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte also both spent brief periods at the château. Now it is your turn to walk in the footsteps of these prestigious figures!
JC Coutand – ADT Touraine
MUST-SEES AT THE ROYAL CHÂTEAU OF AMBOISE
JC Coutand – ADT Touraine
THE ROYAL APPARTMENT
Once a nerve centre of activity for the French court in the château, the Royal Apartment is spread over three floors that are open for visit: the ground and first floors are dedicated to the Renaissance, while the second floor is dedicated to the 19th century and the reign of Louis-Philippe. Highlights of the visit include the Council Room where the king held audiences, the Guard Room, the King’s Bedchamber and the impressive Minimes Cavalry Tower!
THE SAINT HUBERT CHAPEL
The jewel in the crown of the Royal Château of Amboise, this chapel was the private oratory of the kings of France and appears to literally float above the city. The building also contains Leonardo da Vinci’s grave. The celebrated Italian painter lived in the nearby Château of Le Clos Lucé at the invitation of Francis I, who gave him full use of the estate.
Erwan Fiquet
Léonard de Serres
JC Coutand – ADT Touraine
THE RAMPARTS
As you explore the picturesque grounds, climb up to the château’s ramparts to enjoy breathtaking views over the Loire Valley. To the west, you can admire a stunning prospect of the city, while to the east, the Loire and a rich expanse of countryside stretch out as far as the eye can see.
VISIT THE ROYAL CHÂTEAU OF AMBOISE IN A NEW WAY WITH A HISTOPAD
Do you want to explore the Royal Château of Amboise in an unusual way? Pick up a HistoPad, a free and easy-to-use mediation tool that will open the doors to an augmented reality visit. With the device, you will meet the familiar faces of Francis I and Leonardo da Vinci and admire beautifully recreated decor from the past!
FAQ
How do I get to the Royal Château of Amboise?
You can access the Royal Château of Amboise via the Emir Abd El Kader ramp. There are several car parks nearby. Situated at the heart of the Loire Valley, the city of Amboise is just 20 minutes from Tours by train and approximately 2 hours 40 minutes from Paris by car. You can also cycle to the château along the dykes of the Loire.
Good to know: the train station in Amboise is just 10 minutes’ walk from the foot of the château.
What is the best way to book a visit?
Save time and prepare your visit to the Royal Château of Amboise by booking your ticket via the link below!
