The architectural heritage of the Loire Valley is considered to be one of the biggest tourist attractions of France. Today one can admire nearly 300 medieval and renaissance castles as well as palaces built in the Enlightenment era. During this year’s May Bank Holiday I had the opportunity to visit one of them, namely Chateau Chenonceau. It is one of the most popular castles with up to one million tourists coming every year.
Chenonceau is often called “the Ladies Castle”. It comes from the fact that it was owned by six women who gradually changed its appearance. The origins of the building date back to the 13th century however only a round tower of the original building survived until today. Interestingly, the castle is the background hero of a Polish novel called “Pan Samochodzik i Fantomas“.
The castle has been repeatedly rebuilt and expanded. Its form has completely changed (from a Gothic stronghold to a Renaissance residence), the surroundings have also changed (today it is surrounded by a beautiful garden). A very unusual solution was applied by the builders – the building rests on stone pillars which are fixed to the riverbed allowing water to pass between them. It is safe to say that many years later this architectural curiosity saved the building during the French Revolution: being the only river crossing in the area the castle was not destroyed.
During the reign of Catherine de’ Medici Chenonceau acted as royal summer residence. The Italian duchess was known for her love of good fun and so the walls of the building have seen many great parties.
Despite its glorious past, over the course of time the castle fell into slow decline. This process was only stopped by Marguerite Peolouze. It was her who commissioned a thorough renovation and in the second half of the 19th century Chenonceau regained its looks and importance. It was beautiful again and its doors opened for many distinguished guests.
Today, this cheteau – alongside the Louvre – is considered to be one of the most impressive examples of the French Renaissance. Some stylish furniture from different historical periods and an amazing collection of tapestries and paintings are admired by tourists from around the world. I was lucky enough to be one of them and I will definitely visit this place again.
What do you think?