The chateau d'Amboise was taken over by the royalty in the 15th century. It changed hands many times. Charles VIII died there after an unfortunate accident when he hit his head. The chateau fell into disrepair after the 16th century and was heavily damaged during World War II. It sits at a strategic location along the Loire river and so has fortifications and is elevated above the town.
The chateau became a favorite of Louis XI, Francis I who was born in Amboise, and Charles VIII who did the most extensive renovations. The chateau is designed mostly in the Gothic Flamboyant style though the French were enamored with the Italian Renaissance and Da Vinci came to the chateau in 1516 at the invitation of Francis I.
It seems a good deal smaller than the other chateau we have seen because only about 1/5 of the original remains. It was returned to the French Ministry of Culture in 1840 and they made some repairs. The gardens are spectacular.
During Napoleon's time the chateau was used as a prison and is now is in the hands of the comte de Paris, descendent of Louis-Philippe, the last king of France, who French royalists believe would be the next king of France.
A view of the town of Amboise can be seen from the chateau which occupies the highest point in the town.
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