Château d’Amboise

The royal château of Amboise stands on a terrace above the town and the Loire, the childhood home and favored residence of kings at the turn of the sixteenth century. Charles VIII was born here, rebuilt it in grand style, and died here in 1498 after striking his head on a lintel; François I grew up here and brought Leonardo da Vinci to town.

Leonardo’s Tomb

Leonardo spent his last three years at Clos Lucé, 400 meters up the street, as guest of François I, and when he died in 1519 he was buried in the château’s collegiate church. His remains now rest in the Saint-Hubert chapel on the ramparts, a flamboyant Gothic jewel restored and reopened in 2024, and the tomb is the emotional center of the visit. Our page on Leonardo at Amboise covers the full story.

Visiting

The terraces give the best royal view on the river, and the underground towers, ramped so horsemen could ride to the top, are unique to Amboise. Current hours and prices are at chateau-amboise.com. The town below makes the best overnight base in the valley: walkable, well-fed, and central. Allow 90 minutes, more with Clos Lucé.

Amboise sits 20 minutes from Tours by train and pairs with Chenonceau by road; the top ten castles page covers the combinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Leonardo da Vinci really buried at Amboise?
Yes. He died at Clos Lucé in 1519 and his remains rest in the Saint-Hubert chapel on the château ramparts, restored and reopened in 2024.

What happened to Charles VIII at Amboise?
The king who rebuilt Amboise died in it, in 1498 at age 27, after hitting his head on a door lintel on his way to watch a tennis match in the moat.

How far is Clos Lucé from the château?
About 400 meters up the Rue Victor Hugo. The two visits combine naturally in a half day, château first for the history, Clos Lucé after for Leonardo’s workshops and gardens.