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Castle · Blois, Centro-Vale do Loire
Château royal de Blois
The preferred residence of the kings of France in the Renaissance, with four wings from different periods around a single courtyard and the spiral staircase of the François I wing.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Château royal de Blois
The Château royal de Blois stands high in the town on the right bank of the Loire. It was the preferred residence of the kings of France during the Renaissance. Around a single courtyard you can see four periods of French architecture: the Hall of the Estates General from the 13th century; the Louis XII wing of brick and stone; the François I Renaissance wing; and the Gaston d'Orléans 17th-century wing by François Mansart.
The most famous feature is the open spiral staircase of the François I wing, decorated with the salamander, the king's emblem. The royal apartments were restored in the 19th century by the architect Félix Duban, with walls and ceilings painted in strong colors.
It was in Blois that Henry III ordered the murder of the Duke of Guise, his rival, on 23 December 1588 during the Wars of Religion. The room where this happened is part of the visit.
The castle also houses the town's fine arts museum. In season, there is an evening sound-and-light show projected onto the façades of the courtyard.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1h30 to 2 hours; plus 45 minutes for the night show.
Best time
In the morning, to see the courtyard calmly. The sound-and-light show usually takes place from April to September, at dusk; check the dates.
How to get there
On foot, about a 10-minute walk from Gare de Blois-Chambord, down avenue Jean-Laigret to the place du Château.
Tip
Begin in the courtyard to understand the four wings before going inside. The Maison de la Magie is on the other side of the square.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Château royal de Blois
What is different about the castle of Blois?
Four wings from different periods, from the 13th to the 17th century, around the same courtyard, and the spiral staircase of the Francis I wing.
What happened to the Duke of Guise in Blois?
He was killed in the castle on the orders of King Henry III, on 23 December 1588, during the Wars of Religion.
Is there a show at night?
Yes, in season there is a sound-and-light show in the courtyard. Check the dates before you go.