Château de Blois – Loir-et-Cher : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

If you are looking for a place to find beautiful architecture, history and cultural activities, then a visit to the Château de Blois in Loir-et-Cher, France should be at the top of your list. This majestic castle was constructed in the 15th century and is considered to be one of the most well-preserved castles in France- as well as one of the most iconic landmarks in the region. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it is also full of interesting facts, history and travel guide information. In this blog post, we will explore the interesting facts, information and travel guide tips to ensure you have the best possible visit to this special place.

Interesting Facts About Château de Blois – Loir-et-Cher

1. The Château de Blois is one of the most impressive Renaissance châteaux in France. It was initially built in the 13th century and then rebuilt in the 16th century.

2. The château served as a residence of several French kings, including Francois I, who expanded it to include the Renaissance-style architecture.

3. Standing atop a rocky promontory, the château’s formal and symmetrical gardens have been listed by France’s Ministry of Culture as a ‘Remarkable Garden’.

4. In the 19th century, the château hid a secret underground chamber, which was used to hide religious statues during the Revolution.

5. In the 20th century, repairs and renovations had to be carried out after the castle suffered bombings during World War II.

6. The château is now open for visitors, where they can explore the surrounding grounds while learning about the gardens and unique collection of sculptures.

7. In 1974, the Château de Blois was listed as a Monument Historique (Historic Monument) for its historical importance.

8. The castle has been used as the setting for several movies, including the 2011 comedy A Good Old Fashioned Orgy and the 2019 drama Those Who Remained.

• Château de Blois – Blois : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

History & Information About Château de Blois – Loir-et-Cher

The Château de Blois is a royal château located in the Loire Valley of France. Built in the 14th century, it has been through numerous transformations, additions, and reconstructions, primarily due to the various royals who have resided within the castle’s walls.

The most prominent addition to the château was of François I, who undertook an ambitious renovation during his reign. In the late 16th century, other kings and queens such as Henri III also added to the castle in their own ways. The Château is considered one of the most important sites in the French Renaissance and serves as a reminder of the royal presence in the area.

The Château is best known for being the birthplace of King Louis XII, the birthplace of Gaston d’Orléans, and a temporary home for French kings and courtiers. It has also served as a political center for royals, with notable events such as the Reformation being discussed here.

Today, the Château is a popular tourist destination with its grounds open to the public. The grounds house a variety of structures, such as a potager, where vegetables are grown, and a large aviary, as well as many other gardens. Visitors can also take a tour of the historical château, including its Bedchamber of Memories, which showcases the furnishings used by kings who resided in the castle. The château also features an events center, a cafe, and a fountain display.

• Carcassonne Fortress – Carcassonne : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception – Lourdes : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Travel Guide For Visiting Château de Blois – Loir-et-Cher

Château de Blois lies in the French province of Loir-et-Cher, in the Loir department of the vast Centre Val de Loire region. It overlooks the River Loir and is surrounded by some of the most beautiful medieval châteaux in the world.

The Château de Blois has a history which dates back to the 10th century and was the seat of the French royal family for several centuries. With its mixture of Gothic, Renaissance and classical architecture, its palatial grandeur, its museums and its beautiful parks, Château de Blois is one of the most historically and culturally fascinating places in France and a must-visit for all travelling in the region.

How To Get There

The best way to reach the Château de Blois from within France is by car. Blois lies around an hour’s drive east from the capital, Paris. If travelling from other parts of Europe, you can take the high-speed train TGV from Paris directly to Blois train station. From here, the Château de Blois is only a few minutes away.

When To Visit

The Château de Blois is open year-round, so any time is suitable for a visit. However, summer is the best time to visit, since the gardens are in full bloom. The château also hosts one of the biggest historical pageants in France during the summer, the Fête du Château, a celebration of the château’s rich history and culture.

Major Attractions

One of the main attractions of Château de Blois is its vast and stunning grounds. These include the formal gardens, the English garden and the rose garden. There is also a large park surrounding the château, where visitors can take a leisurely stroll or explore the many statues and monuments on display.

Inside the château itself, there are four museums to visit: the Museum of French History, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Natural History. These museums showcase the best of French art and culture, and offer fascinating insights into the history of the region.

Finally, a visit to the château would not be complete without a trip to the museum of furniture and decoration, where you can admire some of the finest pieces of furniture and artwork from the Renaissance period, as well as viewing the architecture from the 13th to 17th centuries.

• Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel – Normandy : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Basilica of Saint-Sernin – Toulouse : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Lesser-Known Kids & Fun Facts About France

Frequently Asked Questions About Château de Blois – Loir-et-Cher

Q: Where is the Chateau de Blois located?
A: The castle is located in Blois, France, in the Loir-et-Cher department in the Centre-Val de Loire region.

Q: How many wings does the Chateau de Blois have?
A: The castle has four wings, the Royal Wing, the Ducal Wing, the Enceinte Wing and the Gaston Wing.

Q: What is the main facade of the Chateau de Blois?
A: The main façade of the castle is the Royal Wing which is the most imposing and ornate.

Q: Who built the Chateau de Blois?
A: The castle was built by the Kings and Grand Dukes of France.

Q: What sculptures are present in the Chateau de Blois?
A: The main façade of the castle is decorated with 16th century sculptures, including the vices and virtues.

Q: What other attractions can you find inside the Chateau de Blois?
A: Inside the castle you can find the original furniture and decorations, as well as an interior museum where you can learn about the history of the castle and its occupants.

• Lesser-Known Kids & Fun Facts About France
• Arc de Triomphe – Paris : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Carcassonne Fortress – Carcassonne : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide