Famous as the site of the blessing of Joan of Arc’s banner, the Château de Blois consists of a row of rustic structures of various architectural styles. Its façades incorporate features from the Renaissance, classic and Gothic schools. The site also has several art and history museums. The château, which played a major role in the political history of the region, has hundreds of rooms, nearly all with fireplaces. Embark on a self-guided tour around the majestic rooms of the buildings.
Pick up a brochure to explain each section of the tour, which lasts 90 minutes. Guided tours in English occur daily in July and August. Find out about the Counts of Blois, the Dukes of Orléans-Valois and Joan of Arc, who brought her banner here for a religious blessing before leading her army to fight the English.
Witness the spectacular 45-minute sound-and-light show. Listen to the enchanting legends of love and mystery in the château, accompanied by a musical score.
Visit the Fine Arts Museum on the first floor of the Louis XII wing. Arrays of paintings and sculptures decorate its six rooms. Admire works by Marco d’Oggiono, Bourdon, Lemoyne and other masters. The museum focuses on European art from the Renaissance to the end of the 1800s.
Other collections are scattered around the château, such as the carvings and restoration techniques in the architecture halls. Marvel at furniture from centuries ago in the royal apartments. Purchase jewelry, books and toys among other souvenirs in the château shop.
The site is open to visits daily year-round except Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Hours generally start from morning until late afternoon. Pay reasonable fees for entrance and the sound-and-light show. Purchase combined package deals.
Château de Blois is just north of the Loire River in the historic center of Blois. Walk 5 minutes east from the Blois Railway Station. Nearby attractions include the Tourism Office, Pasteur Square and the Robert-Houdin House of the Magic.
