Initially built for defensive purposes in the troubled times of the Middle Ages (Langeais, Le Rivau, Ussé), the Loire Valley chateaux gradually opened outwards during the French Renaissance (15th century), abandoning their austere ramparts and drawbridges to make way for a style particularly inspired by Italian culture ...

Who built the Loire Valley?

The formation of the region as we know it today began after its conquest by Julius Caesar in 52BC. It is however Emperor Augustus who is credited with bringing peace and stability to the Loire Valley.

When were the Loire Valley castles built?

It dates back to the 11th century, although its original medieval edifice was renovated into an imposing Gothic masterpiece at the hands of Charles VIII, who was born in Amboise and, upon assuming control in 1483, brought over Italian artists to re-decorate the castle in a Renaissance style.