Château de Chambord, Centre-Val de Loire, France

© Susanne Kremer/eStock Phot

Château de Chambord, France

Let's admire the Château de Chambord, a pearl of the French Renaissance on the eastern part of the Loire River. The castle was designed by Domenico da Cortona, constructed for King Francis I, and carries the marks of Leonardo da Vinci, who accompanied the king from Italy to France. The chateau's construction began in 1519. The castle showcases a centralised layout and a double helix staircase, which were inspired by da Vinci. The keep, the true heart of the building, reveals striking architecture, mixing medieval grandeur with Renaissance innovations. The building work was completed in the 17th century, under the reign of Louis XIV. Today, we can stroll through the English gardens, which offer adaptable pathways and a variety of plant selections, including conifers. With over 80 different species planted, the garden is designed to enrich the landscape and harmonise with the existing plantations.