Château du Clos Lucé: Tickets

Château du Clos Lucé FAQs‍

1. Do I need to book tickets in advance to visit Château du Clos Lucé?

• We always suggest booking tickets in advance. It’s one of the area’s most popular tourist attractions, so it does get busy. Booking in advance can save you time having to queue and that means more time enjoying the property!

2. Is Château du Clos Lucé wheelchair accessible?

• Château du Clos Lucé is mostly wheelchair accessible, yes. There are 2 rooms that aren’t accessible for wheelchair users.

3. Is Château du Clos Lucé where Leonardo da Vinci lived?

• Yes, Château du Clos Lucé was Leonardo da Vinci’s home for the last three years of his life.

4. Who owns Château du Clos Lucé

• The Saint-Bris family has owned the chateau since 1854.

5. Is Leonardo da Vinci buried in France?

• Yes, Leonardo da Vinci is buried at Chateau Royal d'Amboise, as per his request in his final will.

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Château du Clos Lucé

• Leonardo da Vinci's Final Residence: Château du Clos Lucé was the last residence of Leonardo da Vinci. He moved there in 1516 at the invitation of King Francis I of France and lived there until his death in 1519.
• Underground Tunnel Legend: There is a legend that an underground tunnel connects Château du Clos Lucé to the nearby Château d'Amboise, allowing King Francis I to visit Leonardo da Vinci privately.
• The Mona Lisa's Home: It is believed that Leonardo da Vinci brought the famous painting, the Mona Lisa, with him to Clos Lucé. The painting was later acquired by King Francis I.
• Model Room: The château features a room filled with models of Leonardo da Vinci's inventions, reconstructed based on his designs. These include flying machines, war machines, and architectural innovations.
• Beautiful Gardens: The château is surrounded by stunning gardens, known as the Parc Leonardo da Vinci. The park features giant models of Leonardo’s inventions and interactive exhibits.
• Architectural Blend: The Château du Clos Lucé showcases a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, reflecting the transition period during which it was built.
• King's Connection: The château was a gift from King Francis I to Leonardo da Vinci. The king admired Leonardo greatly and provided him with an annual pension.
• Inspiration for Gardens: The gardens of the château were inspired by Leonardo’s studies of nature. He meticulously observed and drew plants, which influenced the design of the garden.
• Museum of Leonardo's Legacy: The château now serves as a museum dedicated to the life and work of Leonardo da Vinci, showcasing his art, inventions, and writings.
• Historic Chapel: The Château du Clos Lucé has a small chapel, known as the Chapel of Saint-Hubert, where Leonardo is believed to have prayed. The chapel features frescoes that are thought to be by Leonardo's disciples.
• Miniature Bridge: A small bridge in the garden is a replica of one designed by Leonardo da Vinci. It was intended to be a movable bridge for military use.
• ‍Preserved Frescoes: Some of the original frescoes in the château, believed to be inspired by Leonardo, have been preserved, offering a glimpse into the artistic ambiance of the time.