Blois

107klms. from the chateau.

First mentioned in the 6th century by Gregory of Tours, it was by the early Middle Ages seat of the powerful counts of Blois, from whom descended the Capetian kings of France. At the end of the 14th century, Blois was acquired by Louis de France, duc d’Orléans. Joan of Arc set out from Blois in 1429 to raise the siege of Orléans. In 1498 the son of Duke Charles and grandson of Duke Louis succeeded to the French throne as Louis XII. He had been born in the château, and, from his coronation until the end of the 16th century, Blois was almost a second capital of France.

A hillside city on the Loire River it is the capital of the Loir-et-Cher department in central France. The late-Gothic Blois Cathedral towers over its cobbled center. Nearby, the Château Royal de Blois is a former royal palace with ornate chambers, and paintings and sculptures from the 16th to 19th centuries. Opposite, La Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin explores the history of magic and holds live performances.

Although the castles towns and villages of the Loire Valley are within easy reach of this hillside town, Blois itself has much to offeer then it's location for the tourist. Once prized by kings, Blois' castle is the star attraction and you can complete your visit by discovering the gardens, churches and medieval streetscapes that are so impressive.

The town has some picturesque streets and many Gothic and Renaissance buildings. It is a major tourist centre of the Loire valley and an important market for the corn (maize), asparagus, and wine produced in the surrounding countryside. Chocolate and footwear are also made.

Blois Attractions:

* Château royal, the favorite residence of 7 kings and 10 queens of France, a concentrate of 4 epochs and 4 architectural styles.

* It's remarkable gardens and natural heritage - rosery, bishopric garden, Victor-Hugo square, Foix terrace gardens, etc.

* It's architectural heritage and the old town (Town of art and history)

* The Loire River - for strolls along the Loire, royal river, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and to enjoy some of the most agreeable riverside areas: Loire by bike.

* For its festivals throughout the year (Rendez-vous de l’histoire, bd BOUM (comics), Mix’terres, etc.).

* The spectacular Gothic Blois Cathedral

 

 

Blois Castle

 

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