Château de Chambord & Chenonceau

Chambord Castle

Finally, the day had come to satisfy my curiosity about the Chateau de Chambord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. I had driven past it countless times, always wondering what lay beyond its impressive façade. This year, I decided it was time to quench my curiosity and step inside this 16th-century Rainnasance gem.

Commissioned by King Francis I of France in 1519 (who only spent 72 days total here!), construction continued for several decades, with the castle undergoing various phases of expansion and refinement. The design drew inspiration from both French and Italian architectural styles of the time and exhibits a harmonious blend of elements, including the symmetrical layout reminiscent of French châteaux and the Italian influence evident in its ornate details and sculptural embellishments.

The castle\’s exterior features an imposing façade characterized by elaborate pinnacles, soaring chimneys, and a multitude of ornamental spires. The intricate stonework combines Gothic and Renaissance motifs with sculpted figures, heraldic symbols, and decorative reliefs adorning the exterior walls. My favourite part? The elaborate water spouts.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Chambord is its central structure, crowned by a distinctive lantern tower. Rising above the castle\’s rooftops, the tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, emphasizing the castle\’s commanding presence.

Inside, Chambord boasts an expansive interior layout spanning multiple floors. The ground floor encompasses vast halls, such as the Great Hall, with its high ceilings and impressive fireplace, serving as the focal point for grand festivities and royal gatherings. The upper floors house a series of lavishly appointed chambers, including the King\’s Chamber, the Queen\’s Chamber, and a host of guest rooms, each adorned with intricate tapestries, sumptuous furnishings, and elaborate woodwork.

The castle\’s pièce de résistance, the double helix staircase, is an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the Renaissance period. The two intertwined spiral staircases ascend symmetrically, allowing visitors to ascend and descend without crossing paths. Theories abound regarding the staircase\’s purpose, ranging from functional considerations to symbolic interpretations of duality and harmony.

Throughout history, it has served as a backdrop for significant events, including royal receptions, hunting parties, and diplomatic encounters. The castle\’s rich tapestry of stories encompasses the reigns of several French monarchs, each leaving their mark on its legacy through additions and renovations.

I left Chateau de Chambord with a sense of awe and a newfound appreciation for its beauty and historical significance. It was a day well spent, including walking the gardens in the rain and seeking refuge in the cafe.

If you ever find yourself driving by, do yourself a favor and make the time to go inside. Trust me, you won\’t be disappointed.

Château de Chenonceau

Château de Chenonceau, a jewel of the Loire, boasts a rich and fascinating history mainly shaped by women starting in the 16th century.

Although Thomas Bohier, a wealthy financier and chamberlain to King Charles VIII of France was the first to acquire a then medieval castle, it was his wife, Katherine Briçonnet, who played a significant role in the castle\’s design and development. She oversaw the construction of the iconic gallery spanning the Cher River, a feat of architectural brilliance that became the hallmark of Château de Chenonceau.

The château exchanged hands several times throughout history, with each owner leaving their unique imprint on its legacy. Most notable was Diane de Poitiers, the mistress of King Henry II, who had gifted her the chateau. She expanded the gardens and added elegant arches to the gallery, further enhancing the château\’s allure.

However, Catherine de Medici, Henry II\’s widow, seized control of the estate upon his death and embarked on extensive renovations, commissioning the construction of the two-story gallery atop Diane de Poitiers\’ arches. Catherine\’s influence is evident in the château\’s architectural features, including the emblematic \”C\” monogram and her personal emblem, the interlaced crescents.

During the turbulent years of the French Revolution, Chenonceau narrowly escaped destruction. Thanks to the efforts of Louise Dupin and Madame Pelouze, who played instrumental roles in saving the château, it survived the ravages of the revolution.

Throughout World War I and II, Château de Chenonceau served as a haven for the wounded and a passage for refugees fleeing conflict. Its history became entwined with the heroic acts of courageous women, such as Simone Menier, who contributed to the château\’s preservation during these challenging times.

Today, Château de Chenonceau stands as a testament to the resilience and endurance of its architectural and natural splendor.

As one wanders through its halls and gazes upon its timeless beauty, the château\’s history whispers tales of power, love, and the strength of remarkable women who have left an indelible mark on its legacy.

I\’m not one to believe in ghosts, but on one February visit, I was one of only a handful of people in the entire chateau. And as I stood in one of the hallways, just outside the mourning room, I could hear the fierce winds outside blowing and coming through cracks in the old windows. I felt the cold air from the winter morning. I could chalk what happened next to weather, but I swear I felt someone brush past me and heard a quiet whisper say, \”Welcome here.\”

I\’ve been back several times, always in February, always in bad weather, and have never experienced anything like it again.

Weather or welcome? As a fierce and determined woman, I want to believe it was the latter.