French wines are rightfully considered one of the best. If there is a word on the bottle "chateau", this usually means that the drink inside is of excellent quality. However, for people new to the subject, it is not always clear why the chateau is so valued by experts. For the French, wine is not only a holiday attribute, but also a common drink consumed daily. Now it’s hard to imagine, but the culture of growing and drinking was once forced on them.

The ancient Romans spread winemaking throughout the conquered lands. Already by the 4th century, it was impossible to imagine France without numerous vineyards, and its inhabitants without the usual bottle of good red or white wine on the table. IN further development industries and culture continued.

Wines have been produced on estates from the very beginning. The center of the property was the castle - chateau. That is, chateau is not the name of a specific wine. This is how the place of production is specified on the labels of different varieties. Moreover, such wines can be both red and white.

For example, “Château de Chambord” is made at the Chambord wine estate. This is how the region can be determined. Most often, the word chateau in the name of wines on the label is used by producers from the Bordeaux region.

In modern France, chateau is also the name for any building, even if it is only a few years old. The main thing is that they must be in the same place where the castle once stood.

In addition to chateau, there are at least two more concepts, the meaning of which you need to know in order to somehow understand French chateau. One of them is appellation. This is one of the regions of France where winemaking takes place. Each of them has unique set features, parameters influencing the quality of wine:

• geographical location;
• using certain grape varieties with different yields;
• drink production technology;
• holding time, etc.

The appellation system was introduced by law in 1935. This was an unusual and decisive action by the authorities. The need for such measures was dictated by the critical situation of the industry.

IN late XIX century, almost the entire grape harvest was destroyed by the phylloxera beetle. Californian varieties, resistant to this insect, were brought in to replace the usual varieties. As a result, a good grape harvest was obtained in different farms and, as a result, overproduction. Products depreciated and vineyards began to go bankrupt.

To save the situation, measures were taken to establish the entire production process in the best farms. Strict quality control has appeared. Product features were regulated depending on its name and belonging to a particular region.

Now manufacturers, if they want to be considered the best and initially demonstrate quality to the buyer, are forced to comply with such standards adopted for each region separately. Only in this case can they put the inscription “Appellation Contrôlée” on the label, that is, “Control by origin”. For the buyer, such information will mean that the wine in the bottle meets the appellation standard. This is confirmation High Quality, including certain:

• colors;
• smell;
• shades of taste.

Today there are about 466 appellations in France. Moreover, often one of them is part of the other. The most recognizable include:

• Bordeaux;
• Chablis;
• Champagne, etc.

Another fundamental concept is terroir or terroir. Natural conditions influence the quality and characteristics of wine:

• climate: frequency of rain, temperature and its changes, wind strength, etc.;
• soil parameters;
• slope of the site, etc.

In one wine-growing region, similar characteristics may differ even in neighboring areas. As a result, the taste of wine obtained from the same grape variety is different. The totality of all these soil and climatic parameters is called terroir. Its difference from appellation is that it takes into account only natural features, while appellation also takes into account the production process.

Classification of French chateau wines

In France, there are officially four quality categories for wine:

Some wine regions of France

France is home to many famous wine regions. Here are some of them:

Features of choosing a chateau

When choosing, you should pay attention to the design of the label. The most best brands French wines never have a bright, “screaming sign”. As mentioned, they must indicate the appellation, chateau (castle). Often the inscription is written in small print.

Elite wines are also awarded the Grand Cru category.. Few get the first one. They are made from the best grapes. The remaining categories are from what is left. The wines of the second and third numbers practically do not differ in quality, but noticeably in price.

The words “recoltant” or “producteur” indicate that the drink was bottled by the manufacturer himself in the chateau. Sometimes the manufacturer is not able to sell all the products and gives them to another seller. The latter bottles the drink and sells it under its own brand. This red or white chateau is considered to be of lower quality and costs less, also due to its different name. Although this is the same wine, not inferior in quality to other varieties, including the best.

The shape of the bottle will also tell you about the chateau manufacturer. Each of the regions can be identified by it. For example, bottles from Bordeaux are long, with “shoulders” and a recess at the bottom. This is due to the presence of sediment. It accumulates in the lower part due to the recess. With the help of “hangers” the sediment is retained and does not fall into the glass.

The cork of an expensive French wine is made of cork oak. Must contain an inscription about the year and castle. U good varieties The plugs are usually very long. Some brands of French wines have been stored for decades. The cork is changed every 15 years.

The drink is best drunk during a specific period for its brand. For example, for most products from the Bordeaux vineyards of France optimal age- 15–20 years, Burgundy vineyards - 5–10.

You need to purchase the best French wines in special stores. This is due to storage conditions that cannot be created in a regular supermarket. The following features exist:

• stored in a special basement;
• are horizontal;
• a certain temperature is maintained;
• do not wipe off dust;
• It is strictly forbidden to move, etc.

So, according to the rules, cellars are not located near roads. Vibrations can change the taste of a chateau. Sometimes, in order for wine to “get sick”, it is enough, for example, to transport it carelessly in the trunk. To recover, you can try holding it in the right conditions at least a week. Best temperature storage - about + 12 °C, although for different categories it may differ.

With a chateau of lower quality, everything is much simpler: both purchasing and storage. For example, red or white Chateau Dargault is very inexpensive, but also has many recognizable features inherent in the best wines of France.

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France is rich in historical monuments, and perhaps the most significant of them are castles. During the Middle Ages in France it was built great amount locks Kings, knights, courtiers and courtiers lived in them. All castles by architectural style and appearance totally different.

It is hardly possible to find a pair of twins. Many masterpieces of history have survived to this day. Now these are magnificent museums, architectural monuments, sights of the country, for which a whole army of tourists come to France all year round.

Angers Castle

Initially it was a small settlement. Angers Castle accommodates a mixture of historical events and architectural styles. It is through the history of this castle that one can examine the entire rich history of the emergence of the French state. England and France repeatedly fought over the possession of this castle.

Versailles is one of the most famous, majestic and beautiful castles in France. It was built during the reign of King Louis XIII and was a simple hunting lodge. But it was soon expanded, and the Royal Family moved in to live there. For many years, Versailles was the residence of kings.

Versailles is beautiful both inside and out

It was hardly possible to find anything more worthy for the residence of kings. Versailles is beautiful both inside and out. Everyone dreams of walking around the castle, but an even greater desire is to stroll through the huge, magnificent English gardens of the palace. Such a beautiful geometric idyll of flowers, trees and paths is rarely seen anywhere. It's almost unique.

Vincennes Castle

The greatest royal fortress, which is located in the suburbs of Paris near the Ile de la Cité.

Vincennes Castle has survived to this day in its original form.

Unlike many castles in France, which were usually built on top of a hill or cliff, this castle was built on a plain. Special fortress ditches were dug and filled with water from a small stream. In the Middle Ages, the castle was surrounded by a forest in which there were many wild animals. It was not without reason that the favorite pastime of kings was hunting.

Troussay Castle

Not far from Blois, in the Loire Valley there is a small medieval Castle of Trousset. Initially it was a fortress, which was built back in 1450. The oldest parts of the castle were built in the 16th century during the reign of Francis I.

In those days, the castle belonged to Robber de Bugis, the head of the royal stables and the king’s squire. It was the domain of the de Bugy family until 1732, but then the castle was bought by the Peluys family, a family of lawyers. But they were also short-lived masters. The castle passed from one owner to another until it was bought by the family of the scientist and historian Louis de la Saucay.

Away from the bustle of the city lies the majestic Chateau de Chambord. This is a very beautiful castle with magnificent architecture, it delights with its sophistication, elegance, and splendor. The Chateau de Chambord is rightly called a masterpiece of the Renaissance.

The Chateau de Chambord is rightly called a masterpiece of the Renaissance.

Its size and grandeur will not leave anyone indifferent. It was not without reason that King Francis I constantly thought about how to make Chambord Castle special. He even wanted to change the course of the river so that the castle would outshine the others with its splendor.

Castle of Ussé

On the banks of the Indre, in the Laura valley, there is a small medieval castle Yusse. The first owner, who initially built a wooden fortress in the 9th century, was Gelduin de Saumur. And his son, Gelduin II, laid the first stone of the castle in 1040, which has survived to this day. It was he who was described in his fairy tale “The Sleeping Beauty” by Charles Perot.

This castle is truly beautiful. Beautiful nature, gloomy Chinon forest, deep rivers. The castle itself was built in dark colors, but its white towers could be seen from afar. The castle is full of architectural delights of that time. Back in 1861, the Château de Ussé was recognized as a historical monument of France.

Perhaps the most majestic building located in the central part of the Loire Valley is the Chenonceau Castle. This castle was built on the basis of a military fortress, which was surrounded by deep water ditches.

Chenonceau Castle was built on the basis of a military fortress

And only with the help of a drawbridge could one get into the fortress. The castle was built during the Renaissance, which is reflected in the architecture of the building. Everything is gorgeous both outside and inside. And this speaks of refined and exquisite taste his owners.

Chateau d'If

Built in the 16th century, the Château d'If has actually survived to this day. The castle was built in the Mediterranean Sea on the island of the Friulian archipelago. Initially, its goal was to prevent any enemy attacks on Marseille from the sea. But the castle has a happy fate, because during the entire period of its existence it never repelled a siege. That is why the original appearance of the castle has been preserved to this day.

This is perhaps the most favorite castle among tourists. After all, there is not a single person who does not know the story about the Count of Monte Cristo, which was told by Alexandre Dumas. Many people want to personally plunge into the world of Edmond Dantes, to see with their own eyes the cell where their favorite hero suffered for several decades.

The Chateau d'If was a prison for many aristocrats. Many sat in it and waited for their sentence, which was then carried out in the square in the center of the castle. To this day, the castle smells of death.

Royal Castle of Amboise

The Royal Castle of Amboise is considered to be the most famous castle in the world. This is the first architectural creation in the Loire Valley. The castle was built in the Renaissance style, but it can also be classified as a Gothic building. These two styles of architecture are very closely intertwined in the external design of the castle.

Royal Castle of Amboise in Renaissance style

The Royal Castle was built in the 11th century. Many brought him fame royal families who lived here. Here is the tomb of the great artist Leonardo da Vinci. The Royal Castle of Amboise is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Chinon Castle

In ancient times, Chinon Castle was a fortification system for three different castles. It was during the reign of Charles VII that the fortress flourished. Having begun reforms in the reorganization of France, announcing the abolition of the feudal order, the king moved to live in Chinon Castle.

A significant meeting between the papal legate Alexander VI and King Louis XII also took place within the walls of this castle. At this meeting, the king received permission from the church to dissolve his marriage to Jeanne Valois. This allowed the king to soon marry the widowed Anne of Brittany, thus becoming king for Brittany as well.

Over the years, Chinon Castle lost its military significance and became a prison.

Castle of Clos Lucé

An equally famous castle in the Laura Valley is the Castle of Clos Lucé. The great Leonardo da Vinci brought fame to this castle. It was here that the famous Italian found refuge towards the end of his life.

The beautiful Château de Clos Lucé, built of pink and white bricks, was located near the Royal Château de Amboise. The first house built of colored bricks appeared here during the reign of Louis XI. Currently, these two neighboring castles can easily compete in beauty.

Castle Sumor is the largest and no less famous castle located in the Loire Valley. The castle itself was built in the shape of an irregular quadrangle. Round white towers were erected in each corner, two of which have retained their original appearance to this day. Even the masonry, made in the 13th century, has been preserved.

Chateau de Saumur is a famous castle located in the Loire Valley

The remaining towers have been restored. The eastern tower is decorated with coats of arms that belonged to the Angevin family. Originally it was a fortress. But the Duke of Anjou reconstructed it for the royal court. During the reign of Louis XIV, the castle served as a prison.

During Napoleon's military operations, the castle was converted to store weapons and ammunition. Having gone through a difficult life path, Sumor Castle was partially destroyed. Currently, the restored castle will soon begin to welcome tourists and lovers of historical attractions.

Of course, this is far from full list famous castles of France. There are more than a thousand of them and you can talk about them for a long time. After all, the history of each castle is unique and interesting. These castles have lived interesting life, which our contemporaries are trying to look into.

Video review of castles in France

The abundance of magnificent architectural and historical monuments located in the Loire River valley in France determined the inclusion of the Loire Valley from Sully-sur-Loire to Chalon-sur-Loire in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

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Coupiac is a commune in France, located in the Midi-Pyrenees region. Department - Aveyron. Part of the canton of Saint-Sernin-sur-Rance. The district of the commune is Millau. The population of the commune in 2008 was 473 people. Cupiac Castle (XIII century). Historical monument since 1928

Chateau de Calmont d'Olt

Chateau des ducs de Lorraine

Palace of the Dukes of Lorraine (now the Museum of Lorraine)

The Lorraine Museum is a historical museum created by the Lorraine Archaeological Society in 1848. Since its founding, the museum has been located in the Palace of the Dukes of Lorraine in Nancy. The museum shows the history of Lorraine from ancient times to the time of the Empire. Along with the life of the ancient duchy and its capital Nancy, the museum also pays attention to the art and traditional crafts of Lorraine.

The main building of the museum, located in the Palace of the Dukes of Lorraine, houses the historical museum. The Lorraine Museum of Arts and Crafts is located in the building of the ancient Cordelier Convention.

Monument to the Duchess of Lorraine Philippa of Geldern, (XVI-XVIII centuries).. Gallo-Roman Jupiter trampling an angiped.

Finally, in the Church of the Cordeliers there are the tombs of the Dukes of Lorraine. In addition, the museum includes Montagu Castle.

The museum presents the following historical sections:

Period ancient history to the Merovingians, which includes the ancient Roman period;
The Middle Ages in Lorraine: from the rise of the Duchy of Lorraine to the Battle of Nancy in 1477 and the Renaissance;
Classical period: from Duke Charles III of Lorraine to Duke of Lorraine and Holy Roman Emperor Francis I;
The Age of Enlightenment and the reign of the last Duke of Lorraine Stanislav Leszczynski (until 1766).
In addition to the historical sections of the museum, separate rooms are dedicated to artists who made a great contribution to the development of Lorraine over the centuries:

François-André Vincent, “The Marquis la Galazier receives the title of Chancellor of Lorraine at the Castle of Meudon from Stanislaw Leszczynski on January 18, 1737” (1778).

View of the castle and the town of Commercy (XVIII century).

the Jacques Callot room, which displays numerous engravings by the famous engraver and draftsman;
the hall of Georges de Latour, where there are several paintings by the Lorraine artist depicting daily life region of the 17th century;

Georges de La Tour, "Woman with a Flea" (1625-1650).

sculpture hall of Richer Ligier, Paul-Louis Siflé, Clodion and others;

hall of religious sculpture;

scientific cabinet of the 18th century;
hall of faience of Lunéville and Saint-Clement;

a rich collection dedicated to Judaism (the collection of bookbinder and collector René Viener, a member of the Nancy school, which was transferred to the museum in 1939).

“Treasures of Pouilly-sur-Meuse”: 31 objects from the 15th and 16th centuries found in this city in 2006, including coins and cups. Classified as a national treasure of France.

Palais des comtes du Maine

Chateau de Sainte-Suzanne (Mayenne)

Sainte-Suzanne is a picturesque ancient village located in western France in the department of Mayenne, Loire Land region. She is a member of the association “The Most beautiful villages France."

Just under 1000 people live here. This area went down in history as the “pearl of Maine County,” on the historical territory of which it was located.

Sainte-Suzanne stands on a hill reaching 220 meters in height, known as “Mont Noir” (translated from French means "black mountain").

To the north of the settlement there are even more high hills, on the slopes of which lie forests. Distance to the largest settlement- Angers - is 88 kilometers.

The history of the settlement begins in the 10th century, when the relics of Saint Susanna, after whom the city was named, were brought to the local temple. A century later, the city fortress was besieged by William the Conqueror. During the Hundred Years' War, Sainte-Suzanne was held in English hands for 14 years and was only liberated in 1439. In 1608, one of the ministers of King Henry IV of Navarre settled here. The city quickly acquired important economic and administrative significance - the parish center was located here, frequent fairs were held, and salt mining developed. In the 19th century, more than 1,800 people lived here.

The main religious building of the city is the Church of St. Susanna, which survived many destructions and subsequent restorations. Only the Renaissance portal and the bell tower have been preserved in their authentic 16th-century form. Interior design The church is quite modest, but it contains medieval wooden sculptures of the 14th-15th centuries.

Outside the city there is an ancient cemetery with a chapel of St. Mary Magdalene. When the main church was closed during the French Revolution, the parish temporarily moved to this chapel.

In addition to the Castle of Sainte-Suzanne, many stone mansions and mills of the 17th century have been preserved in the city. One of these houses houses a local historical museum, where the rarest medieval ammunition of the 15th century is displayed.

entrance to the museum

Three kilometers north of the settlement there is a Neolithic monument - the burial mound of the Dolmen des Herves, whose age reaches 6,000 years.

Vitrified part of the wall of the castle of Sainte-Suzanne. Vitrified forts are defensive structures whose stone walls are vitrified, that is, partially melted, and the voids between them are filled with glassy slag.

Fontenoy-le-Château

The fate of Fontenoy Castle is sad. At present, Fontenoy-le-Chateau is almost completely destroyed. Its ruins are located in the Vosges region in northeastern France. The main function of the castle has always been defense, which it carried out from the 11th century until its partial destruction in 1635, during the Thirty Years' War.

In the 11th century, the Abbey of Toul, which owned this land, laid the foundation of a tower to protect its territory and the Coney River valley. It was one of the first fortresses in the south of the Vosges, along with Epinal and Remiremont.

The castle was located on a rocky outcrop of sandstone at the confluence of the Coney and Chatelain rivers, it was protected by natural steepness on three of its sides, and water from nearby rivers made it possible to flood it in case of danger. The main entrance was protected by a dry ditch, traces of which are still visible; thorn bushes also complicated the approach to the castle. The lower terrace was invulnerable and protected warehouses and barns. Twice in its history the castle was seriously rebuilt for the purpose of strengthening.

In 1360, the castle became owned by the powerful Noufchatel family after the marriage of Thibault VI to Marguerite de Chalon, Madame de Fontenoy. The castle was increased in size and was supposed to serve for the defense of the neighboring Duchy of Lorraine.

In the second half of the 16th century, the castle was adapted for artillery.

In 1596, as evidenced by the foundation stone of the castle, Diane de Dumpmarte and her husband Charles Philippe de Croix further strengthened the castle's defenses, making Fontenoy a safe and practically the only place for trade between North and South.

The castle began to undergo the most significant destruction during the 17th century, when it was literally dismantled into stones in order to build houses. It was still somewhat preserved until the French Revolution, but from 1750, due to the intensive construction of the village of Fontenoy, the ramparts were dismantled and their stones were used for construction.

In 1784, Marc Antoine de Voye described the castle as follows:

“The walls of the fortress, its gates, some towers were destroyed... and everything that can be seen on the slabs of the castle: J"aime qui m"aime. vive Crouy (I love those who love me. Long live de Crouy)"

The remains of the castle began to be considered a national treasure. The stone cladding has almost completely disappeared, sections of the walls from which the stones were removed have collapsed, and the terraces have been leveled over time. In the 19th century, stones were still used to build the town hall. Finally, to prevent the danger of the collapse of the remaining walls, some of them were even blown up.

In 1930, Mr. Louis Olivier wrote that "no one even tried to preserve the ruins."

Almost a thousand years later, even reduced to ruins, the castle still looks impressive. The local association for the support of Fontenoy Castle, founded in 1978, began an operation to save the castle's keep. The goal of this project is to restore the buildings on the castle grounds in order to stop its deterioration and stop the removal of the stones from the walls. The first stone for the new cladding was laid on July 5, 2008.

Chateau de Foix

Foix Castle is a French castle of the Counts of Foix, famous in the Middle Ages, towering over the city of Foix in the Pyrenees. Important tourist site.

The history of the castle begins in 987. In 1002, the castle appears in the will of Roger the First, Count of Carcassonne, who left the fortress to his youngest son Bernard. Since 1034 the castle became administrative center County of Foix and plays a significant role in the military history of the Middle Ages.

The city of Foix is ​​known throughout the Ariège as the capital of the Cathar movement. For the next two centuries, the castle was the residence of the counts who became leaders of the Occitan resistance during the Albigensian Crusade.

Besieged many times, the castle was taken only once in its history, in 1486, due to treason (during a war between two branches of the Foix family). Beginning in 1479, the Counts of Foix became kings of Navarre, and the last of them, Henry IV, became king of France in August 1589 (crowned in February 1594 in Chartres).

He annexed the Pyrenees lands to France. The castle has been the residence of the governor of the Foix region since the 15th century and continued to defend the borders of the region, including during the religious wars. Before the Revolution, a garrison was based in the castle. The governors were Count Treville, known from The Three Musketeers, and Marshal Segur, minister under Louis XVI.

Since 1930, the castle has housed the museum of the Ariège department. The sections on prehistoric, Gallo-Roman and medieval archeology tell the history of Ariège since ancient times.

In Europe, so it’s even difficult to choose which of this beauty is worth visiting. Here are 10 of the most famous and popular castles in France that are definitely worth seeing! Of course, in addition to these ten, there are many castles that will make a lasting impression:

• 10 most beautiful castles in France
• 10 Best Medieval Castles in France
• 10 Best Castle Ruins in France

10 best castles in France:

10. Chateau de Foix

The highly fortified Foix Castle is an important tourist attraction in the region, the center of the Cathars. It was built in the Middle Ages and has been known since 987. In 1034 the castle became the capital of the county of Foix and played important role in medieval military history. Towers were gradually added to further protect the fortress. The castle's two square towers, built before the 11th century, served as a political and civil prison for 4 centuries, until 1862. The newest tower is round and was added in the 15th century. Since 1840, the castle has been classified as a historical monument.

9. Chateau de Tarascon

Situated on the banks of the Rhone River, amazingly preserved good condition. This is one of the best medieval castles in France and Europe. It was built in the 15th century by the Dukes of Anjou and is a very architecturally compact building, surrounded on all sides by the river.

The magnificent Chateau de Vincennes is a massive castle that belonged to the French kings, built in the 14th century and rebuilt in the 17th century, located in the town of Vincennes, east of Paris (now a suburb of the French capital). Like many famous castles, it began as a hunting lodge built for Louis VII in 1150 in the Bois de Vincennes. Its surprisingly spacious building consists of a fortress with four corner towers, surrounded by a thick perimeter wall.

Without a doubt, this is one of the most impressive architectural ensembles in Europe. Built in the 8th century, the abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is located on a rocky island on the northern coast of France, in. The uniqueness of this place is that this island is located just 600 m from the continent, you can easily reach it at low tide, as many pilgrims did. At the same time this is perfect place for defense: at high tide, potential attackers would have to drown.

Mont Saint-Michel (the abbey and the surrounding town) is one of the most recognizable landmarks in France, included in

This beautiful castle, Chateau d'Usse, is located on the edge of the Chinon forest overlooking the Indre valley. The castle was first fortified in the 11th century by a Norman lord of Ussé named Gueldin de Saumur, who surrounded the fortress with a palisade. Because of its fabulous appearance in the Flaming Gothic and Renaissance style, Chateau d’Usse is often called the Sleeping Beauty Castle.

5. Chateau d'Amboise

This famous castle is located in the center, in the town. The castle was built at the end of the 9th century on a spur above the Loire River. During the reigns of Kings Charles VIII and Francis I (late 15th century), this medieval one was replaced by a new royal residence. The chateau began to fall into disrepair from the second half of the 16th century, most of the interior was destroyed, but still something was preserved, the halls were restored, as well as the fortress wall with its towers and walls surrounding the castle.

Historical castle Chateau de Chantilly- one of the most significant aristocratic residences in France during the Ancien Regime era. It is located in the town of Chantilly, in Picardy, north of Paris. This beautiful chateau consists of two adjoining buildings: the Petit Château, built around 1560 for Anne de Montmorency, and the Grand Château, which was destroyed during the French Revolution and rebuilt in the 1870s. They are surrounded by a magnificent park, which was laid out by the great Le Nôtre.

The castle was originally built in 1528–1531 for Constable Anne de Montmorency, designed by the architect Jean Bulland. In 1632, for assisting the rebellious Duke Gaston of Orleans, the constable's grandson, Henry II de Montmorency, was put to death. The confiscated estate passed to his sister Charlotte and her husband, Prince de Condé. Their descendants continued to bear the title of Duke of Montmorency and live in Chantilly until the end of the family in 1804.

Inside the Chantilly castle, the Condé Museum is now organized, in the collection of which, in addition to the personal belongings of the princes of Condé, their artistic treasures are exhibited - hundreds of handwritten and first-printed books (including the unique codex of music "Ars subtilior" and the Gutenberg Bible), a rare collection of porcelain and the "Magnificent Book of Hours of the Duke Berry" - a famous illustrated manuscript of the 15th century. Together with numerous engravings and paintings by Botticelli, Clouet, Poussin and other old masters. Every two years, the castle park hosts a fireworks competition - Nuits de Feu, which is attended by people from all over the world.

is one of the most famous and impressive castles in the Loire Valley. The castle is a testament to the Age of Enlightenment, with its original design, furniture and decoration, as well as the history of the castle, which was chosen as the residence of a prominent woman, Diane de Poitiers.

It was built in the 11th century on the Cher River. It passed from hand to hand until it was given to Diana de Poitiers, the mistress of King Henry II). She saved the castle from destruction during the period French Revolution at the hands of the Revolutionary Guard, convincing of its importance for travel and trade, since it was the only bridge across the river for many kilometers.

2. Chateau de Chambord

- one of the most magnificent and largest castle in. Situated in Europe's largest enclosed wooded park, Chateau de Chambord is a jewel of Renaissance architecture. It was built for King Francis I as a hunting estate and also so he could be closer to his mistress. It is one of the most recognizable castles in the world due to its distinct French Renaissance style, which is a mixture of traditional French medieval elements with a pure Renaissance structure.

1. Versailles

Located approximately 20 km southwest of Paris. When the castle was built in 1624, Versailles was still a small village. Now this area has become a wealthy suburb of Paris.

Versailles was built as a small hunting estate for King Louis XIII in 1624. 8 years later the castle was expanded and became the heart of the new palace. Later, Sun King Louis XIV turned Versailles into the best palace in the world, moving the royal court here. As a result, Versailles is known not only as a beautiful building, but has become a symbol of the absolute monarchy of the Ancien Regime. Versailles was ahead of its time - it was used as a model for the construction of many other palaces in Europe.

How to spend the night in a French castle?

And here is the long-awaited selection of the best castle hotels in France. Who dreams of living in a real castle? This is a great experience! Just imagine how many secrets such places keep. Please note that most castles are not heated, so you should not wait for the onset of cold weather.

Chateau D'artigny

Château D'Artigny is located in an 18th-century style castle. This chateau hotel is ideal for those who want to explore the castles of the Loire Valley. The hotel is only 15 km from Tours (mini-guide to the city of Tours). It offers: swimming pool , SPA, restaurant, fitness center, tennis court. The hotel hosts culinary master classes and wine tastings of the region.

Domaine De La Tortinière

My personal favorite among castle hotels is Domaine De La Tortinière. Also ideal for exploring the castles of the Loire Valley. The castle is just a 10-minute drive from Tours. The castle offers guests: a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a restaurant. I would especially like to mention the wonderful rooms, which are superbly decorated with antique furniture.

Chateau de La Ballue

Château de La Ballue is set in a large garden in an ancient 17th-century castle, near the towns of Saint-Malo and Mont Saint-Michel. Guests can enjoy: restaurant, outdoor SPA. A buffet breakfast prepared with seasonal ingredients is served every morning.

Book: Château de La Ballue.

Chateau de Gilly

The Château de Gilly is not a castle. It was the former residence of monks from the 14th century. The hotel is located between Dijon and Beaune, 2 minutes from the village of Vougeot, the famous wine region of Burgundy. The hotel owners managed to preserve the spirit of the 14th century. You will be surprised to see the fortress moats, French gardens, and a dining room with a majestic vaulted ceiling. The hotel's famous restaurant, Le Clos Prieur, offers regional specialties. The restaurant is located in a former wine cellar from the 14th century.

Book: Château de Gilly.

Chateau Des Briottieres

This 18th century castle is located in the heart of the Loire Valley. It features an outdoor heated swimming pool, a tennis court, and a picturesque park with an area of ​​50 hectares. The Château Des Briottieres' dining room serves traditional dishes from the region for dinner. Dinner includes appetizers, 3 courses, and coffee or infusion. Restaurant reservations must be made 24 hours in advance. The hotel is located just 25 minutes from Angers and 45 minutes from Saumur.

Chateau Sainte-Sabine

This wonderful hotel is located in the center of Burgundy in a 17th-century castle built in an ancient monastery within an 8-hectare park. It features an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and a restaurant where you can taste traditional dishes made from local products. You can explore the neighboring villages, visit the famous vineyards of the Burgundy region and taste the most popular wines.