Chateau Saumur started as Roman towers in the Middle Ages, then a chateau, then a palace, then a castle, then a prison. Then the municipality of Saumur bought it to keep it going as a museum. All of the old buildings have gone through several re-incarnations throughout history. As civilizations, rulers, inhabitants come and go, many of the old buildings go by the wayside. Some are saved for the future.
The Loire valley is known for its Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc wines.
Some of them are quite well kept inside, the furniture is in good condition for being several centuries old.
Chateau Villandry is known for its gardens.
The Love Garden…..
The herb garden ….
The country chateau I stayed at, Chateau du Vau. Picture the vines on the outside green in the summer and red in the fall.
It’s been in the same family since the 1700’s, when it was built. My host, Bruno, a philosopher musician, inherited it. That’s all he does, manages the estate.
My room at the chateau.