Amboise Things to Do

Louis Philippe was given the chateau d'Amboise by his mother Louise-Marie-Adelaide de Bourbon-Penthievre. The future king of the French (1773,1830,1850) acquired 46 houses surrounding the chateau to have them demolished, so clearing the remparts. The royal wing was decorated according to the tastes of the time.

I like to see the ornate fireplace here, with its carvings of intertwining ropes, symbol of the Franciscan monastic order. and of the decorative chain of the order of St. Michael. The wood panel above the fireplace decorated with a salamander, favorite symbol of François I.

This room re calls changes in table manners at court, where the cupbearer served drinks. Medieval trestle tables would be replaced by fixed tables. Italian-style tables then became fashionable, richly decorated and extendable. despite the timed introduction of the two-pronged fork, knife and spoon remained more popular up to the reign of Henri III.

During the renaissance, the king of france gradually spread his power over the kingdom, in particular by making sure that his governors, officers and dignitaries in the clergy remained faithful to him. moreover he demanded that his lords spend several months by his side accompanied by their wives. And women became entitled to their place in the royal court. From this moment on solemn audiences and joyful festivities formed an attractive integral part of court life. The council room is one of the 1st of this size to have been used for these events. One of the big favorites at that time was La Festa del Paradiso, imagined by Leonardo da Vindi whose ingenious machinery made it possible to reproduce the trajectories of stars.

1 more image

This chapel located just on the terraces of the chateau Amboise, when we enter to the terraces we will see this chapel 1st. This chapel was reserved for the royal family's private use which dedicated to the patron saint of hunting, this exquisite building in flamboyant gothic style.
This chapel has gained renown due to the presence of Leonardo da Vinci's grave. He died in Amboise on 2 May 1519.

Whether you visit some vineyards, find a wine bar, relax in a cafe or enjoy it with dinner, do make sure that you sample some of the terrific Loire Valley wines.

With names like Chinon, Vouvray, Saumur and Bourgueil among others, you can find a white r red wine that will please your palate.

1 more image

The troglodyte homes in Amboise are residences that are built into the side of the cliffs. Not along side the cliffs, but actually into the cliffs with usually just the front exposed to the outside. Having never seen them before, I was intrigued by the concept.

If you are walking on the road between the town and Clos Luce you will pass right by a group of these homes. Be sure to take a look.

4 more images

The Royal Château of Amboise stands high above the town of Amboise. While it shows signs of wear from the ages, it is a beautiful chateau with a rich history. Upon passing through the walls, you immediately feel it's grandeur.

The chateau, the chapel of St Hubert, which contains Leonardo DaVinci's tomb, and the grounds provide an interesting view of history of Amboise. Walk through the various rooms and see the wings built or expanded throughout the years by Kings with names of Louis, Francois and Charles - be sure to duck your head.

Admission price was 10 Euro per adult, plus we chose to include the audio-guide for another 3.50 Euro each.