Small village of Loir-et-Cher, in Center-Val de Loire region, Chambord is today one of the most touristic communes of France. It takes place near Blois, about fifty kilometers from Orleans, in the heart of the forest of Boulogne.
Became royal property in the late fifteenth century, the village of Chambord took off in the sixteenth century thanks to the construction of its castle by the King of France, Francis I. The construction, long, will not end until the reign of Louis XIV, in 1690. The town became, in 1930, property of the French State which has all the buildings built on site.
Ancient royal city, Chambord is now a Mecca of French tourism, unveiling an architectural heritage of great historical importance.
Built between the 15th and the 16th century, the castle of Chambord is the most popular tourist site of the town. Classified as a Historical Monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it takes place in the largest closed forest park in Europe, on the site of an old feudal mound. Its pleasure garden and its hunting park are also classified as Historical Monuments. Designed on the model of medieval castles, the building is strongly inspired by the Gothic style while unveiling the charms of Renaissance architecture. Inside, you can admire the parade apartment, the queen's apartment, the king's house or the carriage room. The castle also houses a museum of the Count of Chambord revealing including military toys, dishes, engravings, portraits, a ceremonial bed or silverware that belonged to the Earl of Chambord. On the second floor, do not miss the museum of hunting and nature. Temporary exhibitions are also regularly organized inside the castle. As you walk through the park, you can admire wild boars, deer, Mediterranean mouflon, as well as many species of birds.
The Saint-Louis church was built in the second half of the 17th century. Listed historical monument, it takes place not far from the castle. Built at the request of Louis XIV, it was completely remodeled in the nineteenth century by the Duchess of Berry, including the construction of a bell tower in 1855. It can include discover a tapestry of the wish of Louis XIII, as well as a painting of Saint Louis painted by Le Hénaff in 1854.
While walking in the town, do not miss to admire the remains of the 14th century castle, the 18th century Saint-Michel hotel, or the 16th century Maurepas chapel.
The Caroline fountain of the early 19th century, the bridge of the Italians and the Saint-Michel bridge, both of the 16th century, are also worth a visit.
For your walks in the open air, you will appreciate the ponds of the Faisanderie, the Périou, the Thibaudière, and Bonshommes, as well as the banks of the Cosson. The wood of the Périou also offers several marked hiking trails.
A farmers market and terroir is organized on Easter weekend, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays between May and June, from Thursday to Monday between July and August, and from Friday to Monday between September and October.
Many events take place at Chambord Castle throughout the year. You will discover concerts for the music festival in June, regular entertainment in the gardens as part of Jardins en Val-de-Loire, as well as decorations, illuminations and shows for Christmas in December.
July 14 in Val-de-Loire is organized to celebrate the National Day with special tours in the castle of Chambord, a popular dance, night games or fireworks.
Festival of Chambord
- From 6 to 20 july 2024
- Château de Chambord
- Festival de Chambord. Since its creation in 2011, the Festival de Chambord has offered an eclectic program spanning the history of music, right up to the compositions of our time. For its 13th edition, Chambord becomes the exceptional setting for 13 concerts on a fabulous journey through the history of music. With : Ensemble Amarillis and Patricia Petibon ; Thibault Cauvin ; Adam Laloum and Quator Hanson ; Vanessa Wagner, Éric Reinhardt and Julia Faure ; Quatuor Modigliani ; Les Forces Majeures ;
