Château Chambord

Chambord is the largest and most spectacular castle in the Loire Valley — and one of the most iconic buildings of the European Renaissance. King Francis I had it built from 1519 as a hunting lodge, inspired by Leonardo da Vinci, who lived at the court in Amboise until his death in 1519. The result is an architectural marvel: 426 rooms, 77 staircases, 282 fireplaces, and a rooftop landscape of turrets, chimneys, and lanterns reminiscent of an oriental city silhouette.

The centerpiece is the famous double helix staircase in the center of the castle — two intertwined staircases on which one can ascend without meeting the person on the other staircase. The concept is attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, although his exact contribution to the design remains disputed.

Chambord is set in the midst of a 5,440-hectare enclosed park — the largest enclosed forest park in Europe, about the size of Paris within the Périphérique. Deer, wild boar, and rare bird species live here. On the castle's roof, the terrace offers an overwhelming 360° view over the park.

Despite its grandeur, Chambord was never truly inhabited. Francis I spent a total of only 72 nights here. The castle was a prestige project — built to demonstrate the power of the French crown.