Chambord castle, topped by 365 graceful chimneys and towers that are slightly reminiscent of the Middle Ages, is one of the finest examples of French Renaissance architecture and the biggest castle in the Loire Valley. Francis I had it built from 1518 onwards. Some 1,800 workers took part in this gigantic venture. The royal dwelling was only completed in 1545, and Francis I died just two years later.
From 1547 to 1559, his son Henry II carried on the building work and had the chapel erected. Louis XIV stayed here on nine occasions, from 1660 to 1685 and set up his apartment at the centre of the main façade. Molière was present wherever the Sun King was staying and staged Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme here for the first time, in 1670. In 1809, Napoleon gave the château to Marshal Berthier, who did not take an interest in it. The Count of Chambord, who almost became King of France in 1871, was one of the castle's last owners before the French State purchased it in 1932. It has a Medieval plan (quadrilateral shape surrounded by four towers, enclosing a four-tower dungeon), 440 rooms and numerous staircases, including the famous dual-rotation staircase. From the magnificent terrace, you can see the surounding beautiful park and forest abounding in game. The architect's name is not known for sure, but it is certain that Leonardo da Vinci, then present at the court of Francis I, took part in the castle's development.
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