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- Destinations
- Europe
- France
- Loire Valley
- Amboise
Amboise
On the banks of the Loire, 20 miles (32km) east of Tours, is the
Renaissance town of Amboise, a popular holiday destination. Both
historic and beautiful, Amboise attracts tourists by the busload,
but this doesn't detract from its charm. It has been the favourite
residence of Leonardo de Vinci, Charles VIII and more recently Mick
Jagger, who owns a nearby château.
Charles VIII's château dominates the town and is an impressive
fusion of Renaissance and Gothic styles that is built on a rocky
spur separating the valleys of the Loire and the Amasse. The
original 15th-century entrance opens onto a terrace with a
panoramic view of the river. The castle fell into decline after the
revolution and less than half of the original structure still
stands. However many grandly furnished rooms remain, including the
Kings' apartments, which are open to holiday visitors.
Leonardo da Vinci was invited to Amboise by François I to
encourage the French Renaissance. He made his home at the
Clos-Lucé, which is now a museum to his work with 40 models based
on his drawings on display - including flying machines and a wooden
tank. To the east of Amboise are some children's museums, including
the Mini-Châteaux, a two-hectare (five-acre) park with models of
the great Loire château. An excellent aquarium is also situated
nearby.
Information & Facts
Language
French is the official language.
Money
The Euro (EUR) is the official currency in France. Currency can
be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and some large hotels,
though you will get a better exchange rate at the ATMs. Major
credit cards are widely accepted, as are travellers cheques,
particularly in major tourist destinations. Foreign currency is not
accepted.
Time
Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 between last Sunday in March and
last Sunday in October).