Travels, Directions
Medieval castles of France: photos, stories, legends
France is divided by the river Loire into the southern and northern parts. Each has its own climate. This unique beauty area is famous for its villages, which have great historical significance, pastoral landscapes, good wine, famous architectural monuments, and castles.
In the valley you can count about 300 estates. You can see many of the castles of France on the map below. Among them there are real fortresses with defensive buildings and fortifications. For the construction work, the best landscape designers and architects of those years were hired.
At the present moment, many palaces and castles of France continue to be privately owned, some are open to general public, but there are also some in which hotels now operate.
Plessis-Bourret Castle
This stunning castle is located in the commune of Ecuia, on the coast of the Loire, near Angers. Plessis-Burr is perfectly preserved, so many tourists can see it in the very form in which it was built 500 years ago. The castle is a combination of luxury Renaissance and medieval trends.
When designing it, the task was to build a small, at the same time, a real fortress with the necessary attributes for it. In addition, Plessis-Burré should have been comfortable and convenient, so that the owner could live there, invite many guests and hold various balls. The architect was able to implement all these requirements. The castle is rectangular in the territory of 59 to 68 meters. Like other medieval castles in France, its corners complete the towers. A moat has been dug around the whole structure, through which it is possible to cross only a small lifting bridge - a bridgehead was built to protect it. At the same time, space was left between the moat and the wall so that the owner of the castle had a place to walk.
Chenonceau Castle
When walking through the Loire Valley, one can not help noticing the castle of Chenonceau (France), which was built in 1515-1521. In the style of the early Renaissance and late Gothic and surrounded by inimitable gardens.
This chateau at different times owned by Catherine de 'Medici and Francis I. All the owners of the castle repeatedly rebuilt until he fell into the possession of the family of Magnier (1914), engaged in the production of chocolate. Reconstruction of the interiors was completed only in 1951. The interior decoration of the rooms and rooms, thanks to this, practically did not change. To date, Chenonceau Castle is the country's most visited manor. In order not to push the curious cedi, it is better to come here early in the morning. There is an opportunity to rent a portable audio guide - he will tell you the entire history of these places.
Mont-Saint-Michel
On the border of the provinces of Brittany and Normandy, at the mouth of the river. Kusnon, there is a rocky little island. As the legend says, Archangel Michael in 708 came to the bishop of Avranches St. Oberu, after which he ordered him to build a church on this site. The church was decided to create in the form of a castle. On the mountain were found the remains of the two prayer houses, which date back to that time.
At the present moment, the Mont-Saint-Michel castle is one of the most famous landmarks of the country. For better access of tourists to the abbey, a dam was built here - transport is moving along it. However, due to the construction there were problems with the environment, so they are going to demolish it, and instead of daming, build a bridge.
Chambord Castle
This is the most magnificent residence of the kings, which is located on the Loire. This castle can compete on a grand scale even with Versailles. At the very beginning Chambord Castle was conceived as an ordinary hunting lodge, testifying in some way about the power of the monarchs here. Most likely, that's why Francis I, who was engaged in the construction of this facility, did not spare money for its erection.
This castle is a vivid example of the amazing synthesis of the architecture of the Italian Renaissance and medieval forms. It houses a unique staircase, designed by Leonardo da Vinci himself. For those who visit this castle, it is also recommended to take a stroll through its park - it is a reserve occupying an area of 5,540 hectares. By the way, you hardly have to see this landscape somewhere else.
Les Leudes Castle
Continuing to study the castles of the Loire (France), photos of which are presented in this article, it is impossible not to mention Le Lud. It was built in the X-XI centuries as a defensive structure. This fortress was built to protect against the Norman raids of the Angevin kingdom and the British. But the castle was in the hands of the enemy, and only in the XV century returned to the crown of France. Marshal Gilles de Re, who knocked out the enemy from there, received the fortress as a reward.
This castle is interesting for a harmonious mix of different styles. Their diversity is noticeable in decoration, furniture and interiors. At the moment it is open for tourists.
Fortress Krussol
Fortress Krussol was built in the XII century to protect the valley of the river. Rhone. This reinforcement was guarding the borders of France from raids from Italy. At the time of construction, these lands belonged to Gerald Bastet, the lord.
The fortress was erected on a limestone peak and represented an excellent overview and fortified point. It was the key point of the surrounding area. The natural steep slope continued to strengthen the walls. The castle was almost impregnable.
The main structure occupied 3 hectares. The first wall of fortifications is not included. It was created to protect a small village adjoining the fortress. It numbered no more than 100 houses.
Fortress Kriussol in the XVI century, when internecine wars began, was in the heart of the fighting. Local feudal lords tried to seize large areas under the pretext of defending religion. The fortress during the fighting was destroyed, and at the present moment lies in ruins.
Chaumont-sur-Loire
Considering the castles of the Loire, one can not ignore this one. On the rocky bank of the river, between the cities of Blois and Tour, this real pearl of palace architecture hid.
The history of this beautiful castle is directly connected with the names of Diana de Poitiers, Catherine de Medici, Nostradamus, and various princes, with whom he was turned into an exquisite residence. To date, this castle hosts the famous International Garden Festival. Every year, at least 30 gardens are created by local artists, landscape designers, gardeners on the tarmac.
The Castle of Angers
In the historical part of the country, in the department of Men and Loire, is the castle of Angera. It got its name from the city of the same name. During its formation, the castle has often been the cause of the political struggle between France and England. Its massive walls, created in the form of huge columns, withstood many siege operations. This castle was one of the main strategic objects of the country.
It began to be built in the ninth century with the goal of resisting the raids of the Romans. In the thirteenth century it was equipped with a complex of fortifications. Then there was strengthening and expansion of its defensive structures.
The castle for some time was the residence of Rene Anjou, who arranged there knight tournaments and literary holidays. Because of the constant wars in the sixteenth century, the castle fell into decay, and Henry III ordered him to be destroyed. But the fortress was so powerful that it could not be done, and the work was completed. Soon there was a solemn engagement of Françoise Lorraine and Caesar Vandomsky.
Imagination of visitors is still striking huge tapestry "Apocalypse". This product is several hundred meters long.
Clos-Lousse Castle
Continuing to study the castles of France, photos of which can be seen in this article, it is worth highlighting Clo-Luce. This building of pink and white stone was built on a foundation that belongs to scientists in the Halo-Roman era. The owner of the castle was the royal favorite Etienne Le Lu, who was an assistant chef in Plessis-le-Tours.
The medieval square tower has survived to this day. It was part of the general system of defensive structures. Fortresses of the castle were softened by elements of the Renaissance architecture - their structure was acquired after the purchase of the castle by Charles VIII.
The structure was turned into the residence of the king, it was decorated with exquisite carvings on a stone, and also a chapel was built for Anna Brittany. At one time there used to be Francis I, Leonardo da Vinci, Margarita of Navarra, here lived the Baba de la Bourdesier (the king's favorite).
The castle during the Revolution was not destroyed thanks to the efforts of the D'Amboise family. Further, he became the property of the Saint Bri family - in its possession it is still now. Representatives of this house try to recreate the appearance of the castle and its ancient interiors.
In the sixteenth century, the famous Leonardo da Vinci lived here. At the moment, the restoration is engaged in architects, masters of stone and wood, artists, restorers. First, the Guardsmen's Hall will be repaired (it was the kitchen under Leonardo), then the basement floors will be updated, where the machines created by the genius of the artist will be renovated, as well as the Great Hall of the Council. In addition, you can see the rooms of Leonardo da Vinci and Margarita of Navarre.
Amboise Castle
Considering the castles in the south of France, it is worth noting this one that towers over the Loire. He began his story from the eleventh century. Therefore, he experienced many different periods - he was a royal residence and a powerful medieval fortress, a button factory and a prison ... This castle was visited by many humanists, philosophers, artists and sculptors from all over Europe. Each tourist will be interested in walking through the cavalry towers and royal chambers, get acquainted with the stunning collection of furniture, enjoying the beautiful panoramic garden of the Loire coast.
Castle If
Many of the famous for the novel A. Dumas castle is located in the south of France. It was built to protect the city from attacks from the sea. He ordered the construction of Francis I, although the castle was never attacked, due to which it has been preserved to the present day in absolute integrity.
Modern Marcel is proud of it by right - this is one of its main attractions. So, Castle If is guided tours, there is a cozy cafe, as well as postcards and souvenirs are sold.
For a long time this castle was used as a prison, because it was the best place to exile - from there it was almost impossible to escape because of the strong currents off the coast of the island. In the fortress there were cells without windows, located in the depth of the building, although for people with prosperity there were other conditions - they were in the upper part of the building where it was possible to enjoy the sea view and breathe fresh air.
Only at the end of the nineteenth century did the prison cease to exist, and the castle became a landmark of the country.
Castle Serran
The fortress of Serran was built in the sixteenth century, but, like many castles in France, the ancient building was significantly rebuilt in the later centuries. The property belonged originally to the Le Bree family - they requested permission to build it from Louis XI. Designed by the famous Philibert Delorme.
After the changes, the spirit of the Renaissance, characteristic of the period of Francis I (in which almost all the castles of the Loire were built) was still there. The oldest elements of the castle are the corner towers and moats, which are harmoniously combined with the domes crowning the towers and the wide windows. The towers at the top are decorated with balustrades.
On the facade of the building, decorated with a pediment of triangular shape, create a beautiful contrast white sandstone and dark brown shale.
In the castle, interior interiors with a magnificent library and tapestries were preserved.
Castle of Carcassonne
It is a unique masterpiece of defensive and military architecture, which amazes with its grandeur and power. The Castle of Carcassonne (France) consists of a two-row three-kilometer thick wall with towers, the look of which makes everyone tremble.
A distinctive feature of the castle is that in this place is an absolutely ordinary life - cars drive and local people live. Here you can feel yourself in full measure a resident of a medieval city - in the castle entrance is completely free and free!
The fortress of Carcassonne is in the southeast on the right bank of the river. Od. Around it there is a double row of walls with a total length of about 3 kilometers, which are crowned by 52 towers. This fortress in Europe in its time was considered the most impregnable. On its territory are the basilica and the castle of Komtal. Since 1997 the fortress was included in the UNESCO list.
Clo-Luce Castle
Of course, not all the castles of France are associated with the name of the famous Leonardo da Vinci, but not this one. Leonardo at the invitation of Francis I visited this region and lived here for the last 3 years of his life. This time he devoted to the completion of work on his paintings and inventions. Walking here will be pleasant and interesting for everyone. In this place the drawings and inventions of the master come to life, here every visitor will be able to discover the true world of this genius for himself.
Ge Pean Castle
Studying the numerous castles of France, it is worth mentioning this medieval structure, built near Pontevua in the XIV-XV centuries. It is a square in terms of a graceful hunting pavilion. Fortress walls with towers end with a terrace. All its housing units are arranged in the form of the letter "P", forming a huge inner courtyard inside. The main building is decorated with round towers, and in the facade there are many elegant windows, due to which in the chambers there is always a huge amount of light.
Here there were such guests as Henry II, Francis I, Lafayette, Balzac. The inner chambers were decorated in the Renaissance style.
At the moment, the owner is the Marquis de Kegelen. The castle is open to visitors, while its most famous rooms are the salon, the Guards Hall, the library and the chapel. To decorate the interiors, a lot of works of art were used, in this place is the furniture of Louis XV and XVI, the walls are stunning tapestries. Decorating the castle canvases belong to the brush of famous artists, among them Rigo, Jean-Louis David, Fragonard, Guido Reni, Andrea del Sarto.
The legendary Versailles
Versailles, as one of the most famous castles of the country, annually attracts about 3 million visitors. This magnificent palace was built in 1624 for Louis XIII as a hunting house. Later it expanded, becoming the residence of the entire royal family. Unique features of the palace include a corridor with 17 mirrored arches, the Hall of Mirrors and a huge number of other equally interesting details. Visitors in the Queen's bedroom can see the hidden door - Maria Antoinette made her escape through it. Versailles with its stunning halls is simply a must. We should not forget about the 250-acre gardens of the palace, which demonstrate the geometric idyll of trails, flowers and trees.
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