Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire
Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire dominates the Loire valley in a strategic position. It was the first château at Chaumont-sur-Loire, Loir-et-Cher, France. It was built by Eudes II, Count of Blois, in the 10th century with the purpose of serving as a fortress to protect the Blois from attacks.
The castle was burned to the ground in 1465 in accordance with Louis XI's orders and was later rebuilt by Charles I d'Amboise from 1465-1475 and then finished by his son, Charles II d'Amboise de Chaumont from 1498-1510, with help from his uncle, Georges d'Amboise.
The property of Catherine de Médicis in 1560, it passed to her rival Diane de Poitiers.
At the end of the 19th century, the princes of Broglie luxuriously refurbished the château and in 1884 had the very beautiful grounds designed by Henri Duchêne.
The château which has has wonderful views across the Loire Valley is now owned by the government and is currently a museum. Every year they host a Garden Festival from June to October where contemporary garden designers display their work in an English-style garden.
Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire mini guide
| Guide point | Details |
|---|---|
| Address: | Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, Rue du Village Neuf, 41150, Chaumont-sur-Loire, France |
| Switch board number: | +33 (0)2 5 4 51 26 26 |
| Website: | http://www.monuments-nationaux.fr/ |
| Public transport: | Railroad Station: Blois (20km) |