Château de Chambord, France

Jul 13, 2024 | Europe, France, Historical Building

Château de Chambord is one of the most recognizable and largest châteaux in the Loire Valley of France.

Chambord Chateau: 41250 Chambord, France
Date Picture Taken: April, 2024

I did not have a car to drive to the many Chateaux in Loire Valley, and public transportation, such as the train and bus, was inefficient for visiting them. Therefore, I opted for day tours that took visitors to three Chateaux in a day, including Chambord Chateau.

Historically, châteaux served as residences for the nobility and the wealthy elite. They were often the centers of large estates and played important roles in local governance and society.

However, some châteaux were also royal residences or associated with significant historical events and figures.

Château de Chambord

The château was constructed starting in 1519 by King Francis I as a hunting lodge, but it was never intended to be a permanent residence.

Entering the Chateau through the rear entrance

Inside the building, one of its most famous features is the double helix staircase, which allows two people to ascend or descend without ever meeting. This design is often attributed to Leonardo da Vinci.

Rooms in the Chateau

The red color in the map below shows the room I am in. There are four large rooms, and the stairway is in the center. I entered the chateau from the bottom (south side on the map).

To the next room

To another room

Out from the Chateau to the garden in front of the Chateau. The château is set in a vast forested park, enclosed by a 32-kilometer (20-mile) wall, making it the largest enclosed park in Europe.

Looking back at the Chateau

The design is attributed to multiple architects, but it is heavily influenced by Leonardo da Vinci’s ideas. The château exemplifies French Renaissance architecture, blending traditional French medieval forms with classical Renaissance structures.