www.travel-university.org

Amboise Castle has no architectural unity of style. It retains imposing remains of its past magnificence. A long ramp enables you to gain access to the terrace, where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the Loire. The path leads to the St. Hubert Chapel, a real Flamboyant Gothic gem. It was built in 1491 and houses the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci, who died at Amboise in 1519. The king's dwelling was saved from 19C demolition and is marked by its successive occupants (Charles VIII, Louis XII and Francis I). The Drummer Room contains fine furniture, such as Cardinal George of Amboise's chair or a 16C Brussels tapestry. The Council Chamber was the real seat of royal power under Charles VIII. It is a sumptuous room with two Gothic nave vaults. Henry II's bedroom is an example of Italian Renaissance and houses a bed with fluted columns, Flemish 16C tapestries, as well as chests, thrones and other objects required for the king's frequent journeys. The upper floor, once inhabited by Francis I, is occupied by King Louis-Philippe's apartments. You can see a bedroom with French Empire-style furniture or a music room, for example. The gardens were remodelled under Louis-Philippe.

Whilst in Amboise, do not miss Clos-Luce, residence of Leonardo da Vinci. This Summer residence was originally chosen by Charles VIII for his wife, Anne of Brittany. Leonardo da Vinci came to live at the Clos-Lucé in 1516. On the ground floor, you can see some of the magnificent frescoes from the master's workshop (to which a protective coating was added in the 19C). The first floor houses the bedroom in which he died in 1519, as well as his study. Finally, in the basement, some extraordinary machines show how much Leonardo da Vinci was ahead of his time.

Next: Angers