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The Chateau of Chambord

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The Chateau of Chambord

Located in the heart of an immense enclosed park, the Château de Chambord is a gem of the Loire Valley. This monument stands out for its monumental architecture, magnificent gardens, rich cultural life, and numerous legends. Chambord offers a unique experience, combining nature, culture, architecture, and the history of France.

The greatest chateau of the Loire Valley
Open 362 days a year
Plan for 1 to 2 days of visit

Visit the Chateau of Chambord

A jewel of the Renaissance, the Chateau of Chambord is a unique architectural marvel. Although it is strongly associated with King Francis I, its creator, the influence of Leonardo da Vinci is also omnipresent. The Italian genius notably designed the plans for the famous double-helix staircase and the Greek cross-shaped keep.

The chateau is open 362 days a year, whether for self-guided tours, guided visits, or with an HistoPad.

Domaine national de Chambord - Château et les lanternons restaurés ©Léonard de Serres

STAIRCASE, CHIMNEYS... SECRETS TO UNCOVER

Exploring the Chateau's Interior

The Greek cross-shaped keep houses the renowned double-helix staircase, likely inspired by the legendary genius Leonardo da Vinci. Visitors can explore the royal apartments, the chapel, and other historic rooms.

Escalier à double révolution de Chambord ©Christelle Bioré

Domaine national de Chambord - Salle du château ©Sophie Lloyd

Domaine national de Chambord - Cuisine ©Sophie Lloyd

Domaine national de Chambord - Décor itinérant ©Olivier Marchant

Domaine national de Chambord - Escalier du château ©Sophie Lloyd

Domaine national de Chambord - Plafond sculpté Salamandre ©Sophie Lloyd

The Historical Anecdote

A Jewel of the Loire Valley... without Furniture

At the time of its construction, the rooms of the Chateau of Chambord were generally empty. The chateau was only furnished during the court's stays. Francis I, the builder king, spent only 72 nights there in 32 years of reign, leaving Chambord often unoccupied and devoid of furniture most of the time.

A RENAISSANCE "FAKE NEWS"

The Chimneys of Chambord: From Legend to Reality

Have you heard that 365 chimneys adorn the roofs of Chambord, one for each day of the year? Click on the image to finally discover the truth!

Domaine national de Chambord - Lanternons restaurés dans la forêt ©11h45

Where Chambord Touches the Sky!

Admire the Restored Lanterns of the Chateau

Contrary to popular belief that mentions 365 chimneys on the roofs of the Chateau of Chambord, it is now the lanterns that captivate attention. Since July 2023, following significant restoration work that began in 2021, these structures adorned with lead fleur-de-lis have been renovated to prevent leaks and to restore their original splendour.

Domaine national de Chambord - Lanternons restaurés ©Léonard de Serres

Domaine national de Chambord - Lanternons restaurés ©Olivier Marchant

Domaine national de Chambord - Lanternons restaurés ©11h45

Domaine national de Chambord - Les lanternons restaurés ©Léonard de Serres

Let's programme Chambord

THE CHÂTEAU DE CHAMBORD, A GEM IN THE HEART OF THE WOODS

The Most Natural of the Loire Castles

With its 5,440 hectares, the park of Chambord rivals the size of inner Paris. This vast enclosed forest domain is the largest in Europe, providing a sanctuary for remarkable biodiversity. Although only one-fifth of this area is accessible to visitors, it allows for numerous activities, from observing protected wildlife to hiking, horse riding, or cycling on its trails.

Brame du cerf à Chambord - en Sologne ©David Templier

AUTUMN, A UNIQUE SEASON The Rutting of the Stag at Chambord Chateau of Chambord

With the arrival of autumn, the stag, the majestic ruler of the Chambord forest, offers a fascinating and surprising spectacle. Its rough calls, intended to intimidate its rivals, echo through the undergrowth under the watchful eyes of the does. By discreetly settling in an observatory and being accompanied by a guide, one can witness an exhilarating confrontation.

L’écoute du brame à Chambord

SUDDENLY, CHAMBORD LIGHTS UP...

Experience the Magic of Christmas at the Chateau of Chambord

In December, as the nights grow longer and colder, the light-coloured walls of the Chateau of Chambord are adorned with dazzling illuminations. The interior of the château is also transformed with Christmas trees and richly decorated arrangements, inviting both young and old to marvel in a fairy-tale Christmas atmosphere.

Let's go!

Noël au château de Chambord - Extérieur ©Léonard de Serres

Noël au château de Chambord - Danseurs ©Léonard de Serres

Noël au château de Chambord - 2023 ©Léonard de Serres

Noël au château de Chambord - Escalier ©Léonard de Serres

Noël au château de Chambord - Chambre ©Léonard de Serres

Experience the Chateau of Chambord Differently...

Unmissable Events

MUSIC, EXHIBITIONS, TOURS...

The Events Programme at Chambord

Since the Renaissance, the Chateau of Chambord has always maintained a deep connection with the arts and culture. Today, this Domaine continues to celebrate this tradition by organising a cultural season rich in exhibitions, activities, and concerts. This diverse range of events allows everyone to discover the exceptional and unique atmosphere of the chateau.

Festival de Chambord - Musique classique en Sologne

THE MOST "POP" EVENT IN THE LOIRE VALLEY

Chambord Live

Chambord Live is an exceptional live event that takes place each year in the stunning setting of the Chateau of Chambord. World-renowned artists such as Sting, Imagine Dragons, and David Guetta have all graced the stage in front of this majestic chateau, one of the most impressive in the Loire Valley. Who will be the next star on Chambord's legendary stage?

Visit Chambord
Nature in Chambord
Christmas at Chambord
Events
Other must-see attractions