What is the largest of the Loire castles?

The Chambord castle is without doubt the largest of the Loire castles. Located in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France, this architectural masterpiece of the French Renaissance is not only the largest castle on the Loire, but also one of the most emblematic and most visited.

The Chambord castle was built during the reign of François I, King of France, who ordered its construction in 1519. The king wanted to create a sumptuous hunting lodge befitting his power and love of the hunt.

The principal architect of the castle remains anonymous, but is often attributed to Domenico da Cortona. Leonardo da Vinci, invited to the court of Francis I, is said to have influenced certain aspects of the project, including the famous double-revolution staircase.

Construction of the castle was a long and complex process, spanning more than two decades. The main structure was completed in 1547, but improvements and modifications continued over the centuries.

The Chambord castle covers an impressive 5,440 hectares, making it the largest enclosed forest estate in Europe. The main building comprises 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces and 84 staircases.

One of the castle’s most remarkable features is its double-revolution staircase, designed to allow two people to climb up or down without ever passing each other. This innovative design is often attributed to the influence of Leonardo da Vinci.

The castle’s facade is adorned with majestic towers and elaborate chimneys. The roof, complex and impressive, resembles a veritable stone forest with its multiple turrets and domes.

Originally conceived as a hunting lodge, the Chambord castle was never used as a permanent residence by François I. After the king’s death, the castle was somewhat neglected and changed hands several times over the centuries.

In the 19th century, major restoration work was undertaken to preserve and restore the castle. Today, the Chambord castle is a major historic site, open to the public and managed by the French state.

The gardens of the Chambord castle, recently restored, are designed in the classical French style, with geometric parterres, clipped hedges and symmetrical pathways. The gardens offer spectacular views of the castle and are a perfect example of Renaissance landscape art.

The park surrounding the castle is a vast hunting and wildlife reserve, home to deer, wild boar and other species. The estate is fully fenced, making it one of the largest enclosed forest parks in Europe.

The Chambord castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an outstanding example of French Renaissance architecture and ingenuity.

With over 700,000 visitors a year, the Chambord castle is one of France’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the castle’s vast halls, climb the double spiral staircase, stroll in the gardens and enjoy the many exhibitions and cultural events organized throughout the year.

The Chambord castle is the largest and one of the most impressive castle on the Loire. With its majestic architecture, technical innovations and magnificent gardens, it is a spectacular testament to the Renaissance era and a must-see for anyone visiting the Loire region. Its grandeur and rich history continue to fascinate and attract visitors from all over the world, making Chambord an enduring symbol of French culture and heritage.