Enjoy an excursion to Château de Chenonceau, which elegantly
spans the River Cher. The Château dates back to the 12th century,
but the only original features that have survived are the dungeons.
Having undergone many renovations throughout the centuries, the
current Château was built between 1513 and 1517 by Thomas Bohier.
After looking around the château and its picturesque fountain
gardens, travel to Amboise, former site of the French royal court,
for some time at Château du Clos Lucé, the site of Leonardo da
Vinci's death in 1519.
It was originally home to the Amboise family during the Middle
Ages, and then under the reign of Louis XI in 1471. Later, it was
used as Charles VIII's summer home. The château was saved from
destruction during the French Revolution by the Amboise family.
Da Vinci's lasting legacy on the Château is very much apparent
when you visit. Spending the last 3 years of his life here, he
completed several projects for King Francis I under the title of
'Premier Painter, Engineer, and Architect of the King'. Displayed
in the basement are 40 replica models and 3D animations which show
you the extent of Leonardo da Vinci's engineering knowledge.
Leonardo's gardens at the Château are also delightful to wander
around. Learn how nature inspired his work with the caves, streams
and waterfalls. There are also models of his more famous
engineering work, including an assault chariot, aerial screw, and
paddle boat.
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