Loire Valley: Strong Fortresses vs. Beautiful Castles (Part 2)

Royal Castle of Blois

The Royal Castle of Blois, built in the 10th century by the Count of Blois, features 4 different architectural styles, starting from Gothic to Flamboyant and Renaissance to Classic styles. Different from Gothic, the Renaissance architecture is about balance on each of the side. [caption id="attachment_159350" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Facade of Blois Castle"][/caption]

This formula was applied on every renaissance style building in France. On the other side of the fortress lies an Italian brick and stone building of Flamboyant style. The renaissance building has a decorative staircase constructed on the outside of the building. The middle of the building demonstrates the use of the Classical style, having been built by Gaston d’Orleans in 1635. This dwelling represents one of the masterpieces of classical French architecture.

[caption id="attachment_159352" align="alignright" width="150" caption="The Renaissance wing"][/caption]

This royal castle is a must visit for those who want to learn more about the evolution of architecture of France.

Chambord

Unlike other castles which were built upon the river, Chambord was built deep in the wood.Chambord served as the hunting lodge of King Francis I and the design of this castle were made by the King’s honored guest, Leonardo Da Vinci.

[caption id="attachment_159354" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="Chateau de Chambord"][/caption] [caption id="attachment_159356" align="alignright" width="150" caption="Spiral staircase"][/caption]

This Renaissance castle was one of the most beautiful castles in Loire Valley where you can see almost every ornaments carefully carved on the staircase, the ceiling and even the roof line.

Here, you witness with your own eyes the original design of Da Vinci, the double spiral staircase. Unlike ordinary staircase, the secret of this spiral staircase is that it was designed as the double helix DNA. So, when two people start to climb the double spiral staircase from the different end of the stair, they will never meet nor in the middle or on the top.

Villandry and The Garden of Love

[caption id="attachment_159361" align="aligncenter" width="150" caption="Chateau of Villandry"][/caption]

The Chateau of Villandry was once belonged to the Royal family of France. In early 20th century, the castle was sold to a gentleman named Joachim Carvallo who came to France during the World War I and became French citizen by naturalization. He would then dedicate most of his time to renovate one of the most beautiful garden in France, Garden of Love.

[caption id="attachment_159357" align="alignleft" width="150" caption="The flower ornamental garden"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_159371" align="alignright" width="150" caption="View around the Mirror-like Lake"][/caption]

Garden of love consists of 3 levels, the Kitchen Ornamental Garden on the lowest level, the Flower Ornamental Garden on second level, and the Water Garden on the upper level.On the Kitchen Ornamental Garden sowed all herbs and vegetables from every size and every color. Renaissance style garden was carefully set on the flower garden, presenting to you a magnificent view from the top. Stop by the mirror-like lake on the upper level and admire the beauty of nature around you. The water garden on the upper level is intended to irrigate the gardens on second and the lowest level.

A French quote for this garden: C’est magnifique!