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Situated on an island in the Indre river, Azay-le-Rideau was built under
François I by Gilles Berthelot, a financier in his state. A bit Italian,
and a bit traditional French, the exterior of the building presents a
very beautiful union of styles. Balzac called it "A many-faceted
diamond with the Indre as its setting". |
OUR IMPRESSIONS
It is relatively difficult to park in the center of the small town of
'Azay-le-Rideau. Park your car at the entrance to the town, on the banks
of the Indre. The parking lot is free, provides some shade and is located
in a nice area. It will take you ten minutes to walk to the Chateau from
there. Go under the bridge covered with flowers (narrow sidewalks), and
then get on the nicely renovated semi-pedestrian streets through the center
of town. Small market on Wednesday mornings. |
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The Chateau
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You can't see the chateau for free, but since its a national monument,
it's not too expensive (35FF) free for children 12 and under. It shouldn't
take you long to get through the entrance, unless you would like an audioguide
of your tour (walkman and CD) and there is a group just in front of you.
Begin your visit with a tour of the Chateau. |
Because the building is located on an island, the park is
quite pleasant, even a bit Romantic. Atlas Cedars, Bald American Cypresses,
Sequoias, Ginko bilboas surround you in this magnificent English garden.
The
inside is entirely furnished (a rare thing in the Loire), but combines
many different styles and eras... The kitchen is curiously raised off
the floor. The ceremonial staircase is very innovative in style with its
open Italian style balconies. As you descend the staircase (its more dangerous,
but prettier than going up) your eyes will be riveted on the splendid
coffered walls. Careful, the steps are uneven. |
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Information:
Château at Azay-le-Rideau
37910 Azay-le-Rideau
Phone. 02 47 45 42 04
FAX. 02 47 45 26 61
MONUM, the center
for National Monuments
In town, be sure and get a look at the the old church Saint-Symphorien.
It still has the Carolingian facade (9th century ) from a primitive construction. |
France :