6 Old Ruins to Explore in Centre-Val de Loire

One of the beautiful castle located in the heart of France which is also called the ladies chateau’ as throughout its history it is they who have most influenced its design and its destiny. The current château was built in 1514–1522 on the foundations of an old mill and was later extended to span the river. An architectural mixture of late Gothic and early Renaissance and it also has a beautiful garden that is open to the public.

A beautiful castle which was the remains of ancient French architecture. Built between the years of 1604 and 1634, and changed little since, the castle presents an immaculate picture of symmetry, peace, and the aristocratic good life. The interior reflects a living history of the generations of the family and it is still owned by descendants of the original builders. There is also a beautiful garden around this place and is one of the visitors paradise.

The smallest chateau in the Loire which was around 600 years old and is still inhabited by its owners. The 12-hectare land offers a nice garden as well as a gift shop on-site, selling regional and organic products. Guests can enjoy a free guided visit of the castle upon request and the park has a recycling exhibition. It was classified as a historical monument and the smallest châteaux in the Loire valley.

The Chateau of Villandry is the last of the great chateaux of the Loire built during the Renaissance in the Loire Valley. With its unique furnishings, décor and atmosphere, the Château de Villandry is a living testimony of French heritage. Villandry and its gardens are probably one of the most family orientated chateau within the Loire Valley in that it has a children’s maze and a beautiful play area and a beautiful garden.

A beautiful castle which was Leonardo da Vinci's last residence. The site of the manor house dates back to the 12th century when it was surrounded by fortifications of which only the watchtower remains. The house as it is today, a good example of Renaissance art using both brick and the local tufa stone. Today it is a historical monument and is also a well-known museum about Leonardo da Vinci's life, work and memory.

A place of residence for French kings from the 15th to the 19th centuries. It is one of the examples of the French style luxury architecture. Numerous men and women of letters and European artists stayed at Amboise on the sovereigns’ invitation. It has been recognized as a monument historique by the French Ministry of Culture since 1840. It is situated at an elevation of 81 meters.