Clos Lucé is one of 2 French Castles in Amboise

Amboise has two French castles: Clos Lucé and the Château d’Amboise. The manor house of Clos Lucé belonged to the King of France, François I. In 1516 Leonardo da Vinci came to France at the King’s invitation and here he resided the last three years of his life. He brought with him several of his painting, the most famous of which is the Mona Lisa.

The manor house is now a museum to Da Vinci and each room gives you a bit of insight into Renaissance and his genius. My favorite rooms are found in the basement where you will find models constructed from his drawings and marvel at his knowledge of engineering, mechanics and hydraulics.

There are more than 40 models here of Da Vinci’s designs! François I is said to have visited Da Vinci to watch him work via an underground passage that connected the Château and Clos Lucé

After exploring the museum and examining Da Vinci’s detailed drawings and models of his mechanical inventions, wander around the garden. Its lush beauty  and the outdoor display of his inventions. The pristinely manicured garden just behind the manor house is only the beginning. Take time to wander the grounds.

 

 

Leonardo lived here the last three years of his life and died in 1519. You will find his grave in the chapel at the the Château d’Amboise.

 

Clos Lucé is found at the end of rue Victor-Hugo. Take the time to browse the grounds as well as the house as you explore the 40 models of Da Vinci’s inventions.

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