Clos Lucé, Amboise

Nestled in the picturesque town of Amboise, France, Château du Clos Lucé holds an enchanting allure for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike. This graceful castle, a mere stone's throw from the royal Château d'Amboise, is renowned not only for its charming Renaissance architecture but as the final residence of Leonardo da Vinci.

Clos Lucé, a castle with a rich tapestry of history dating back to the 15th century, served as the summer home to French kings before becoming the abode of Leonardo da Vinci in 1516. King Francis I of France, an ardent patron of the arts, invited the polymath to dwell in Clos Lucé, providing him with a stipend and the freedom to dream, create, and innovate. Leonardo spent the last three years of his life here, working on numerous projects and leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.

Today, Clos Lucé is a museum dedicated to Leonardo's genius. Visitors can explore the artist's bedroom, study, and the Renaissance-style kitchen. The highlight, however, is the basement and park, where reconstructions of Leonardo's designs, including models of his flying machines, bridge, and war vehicles, are on display. These innovative contraptions, brought to life from the pages of his notebooks, offer a fascinating glimpse into the mind of the quintessential Renaissance man.

The castle's gardens are another delight, providing a tranquil setting where one can ponder over Leonardo's contributions to art and science. With installations and soundscapes that evoke the period, the gardens are a testament to Leonardo's vision of harmony between art, nature, and technology.