Loire Valley castles

This collection of Loire Valley châteaux highlights the architectural evolution from medieval fortresses to Renaissance pleasure palaces. Key sites include the royal residence at Amboise, the intricate geometric gardens of Villandry, and Clos Lucé, the final home of Leonardo da Vinci. The list features the 'Sleeping Beauty' castle at Ussé, the river-bound Gothic structure of Montsoreau, and the dramatic overgrown ruins of Mothe-Chandeniers. These UNESCO-listed landmarks showcase Flamboyant Gothic styles and historic strongholds like the Royal Fortress of Chinon.