Château d'Amboise: Tickets

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Château d'Amboise FAQs

• ‍Do you need to book tickets in advance to visit Château d'Amboise?
• We always suggest booking tickets in advance, yes. The castle is one of the area’s most popular tourist attractions, so can get very busy during the summer months, so booking in advance can save you a lot of time.
• ‍Is Château d'Amboise wheelchair accessible?
• ‍Yes, Château d'Amboise is wheelchair accessible.
• ‍Did Leonardo da Vinci live at Château d'Amboise?
• ‍No, Leonardo da Vinci lived at another Château close to Château d'Amboise, called Château du Clos Luce. However, it is believe he is buried at Château d'Amboise, though.
• ‍Which chateau did Leonardo da Vinci live at?
• Leonardo da Vinci lived at Château du Clos Luce, which is only a short distance from Château d'Amboise. It is believed that he is buried at Château d'Amboise, though.
• What is Château d'Amboise?
• Château d'Amboise is a grand château in the Loire Valley of France. It was originally a medieval fortress but it was transformed into a royal residence during the reign of King Charles VIII in the late 15th century.
• Where is Château d'Amboise located?
• It is actually located in the town of Amboise which sits on the banks of the Loire River which is around 150 km (93 miles) southwest of Paris.
• What is the historical significance of Château d'Amboise?
• Château d'Amboise played a pivotal role in French history, serving as a royal residence for the Valois and Bourbon dynasties. It hosted pivotal political and cultural events during the Renaissance.
• Who are some of the notable figures that are associated with Château d'Amboise?
• Several historical figures are connected with Château d'Amboise, including: King Charles VIII, who renovated the château. King Francis I, who invited Leonardo da Vinci to Amboise! Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his last years nearby and is buried in the château’s Chapel of Saint-Hubert!
• Why is Leonardo da Vinci's tomb located at Château d'Amboise?
• Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years in Amboise under the patronage of King Francis I. After his death in 1519, Leonardo da Vinci was buried in the Chapel of Saint-Hubert, located within the château grounds.
• What is special about the gardens of Château d'Amboise?
• The château's gardens, known as the ‘Napoleonic Gardens’, offer amazing panoramic views of the Loire Valley. They feature Renaissance-inspired landscaping as well as modern additions.
• How long does it take to visit Château d'Amboise?
• A typical visit takes 2-3 hours, which allows time to explore the château’s interiors, the gardens, and chapel, as well as enjoy the views of the Loire River!

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Royal Château d'Amboise Fun Facts‍

• Royal Residence: Château d'Amboise was a favoured royal residence during the Renaissance, especially under the reigns of King Charles VIII and King Francis I.
• Leonardo da Vinci: Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years at Clos Lucé, a manor near Château d'Amboise. Legend has it that he is buried in the Chapel of Saint-Hubert within the château grounds, as per the request in his final will.
• Chapel of Saint-Hubert: The chapel is admired for its elaborate sculptures and intricate designs.
• Strategic Location: The château is perched on a strategic location overlooking the Loire River, offering stunning panoramic views and serving as a strong defensive position during its time.
• Mediaeval Origins: Before becoming a Renaissance palace, Château d'Amboise started as a mediaeval fortress. Some of the original defensive structures still exist today.
• Prison for Important Figures: The château has served as a prison for several important figures, including the Duke of Guise and the Emir Abd el-Kader, an Algerian resistance leader in the 19th century.
• Catherine de' Medici's Influence: Catherine de' Medici, the powerful queen and regent of France, often resided at Château d'Amboise and hosted many grand events there.
• Royal Births: Château d'Amboise was the birthplace of several members of the French royal family, including Charles VIII, who was born there in 1470.
• Royal Tombs: Apart from Leonardo da Vinci, the château's chapel also houses the remains of other members of the French royal family.
• Restoration Efforts: The château suffered damage during the French Revolution and the World Wars, but it has been meticulously restored to preserve its historical and architectural significance.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Château d'Amboise is part of the Loire Valley, which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, recognised for its exceptional cultural landscape and historical importance.