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Château d'Essalois is a window into France’s royal and medieval past. Locate it on the map, book a room nearby in a click, or add it to your travel list to build your itinerary.
About Château d'Essalois
Château d'Essalois is a historic castle located in the municipality of Chambles in the Loire department of France. The castle is situated on a promontory overlooking the Loire River valley and the Forez plain. The construction of the castle began in the 14th century, and it was completed in the 15th century. It was originally owned by the noble family of Forez. During the French Wars of Religion, the castle was a strategic point of resistance against the Huguenots, who were led by Gaspard II de Coligny. In the 17th century, the castle was acquired by the Marquis de Vichy, who made significant modifications and additions to the castle, including a chapel and a large formal garden. The castle was later sold to various owners and fell into disrepair until it was acquired by the town of Saint-Etienne in the early 20th century. The castle underwent significant restoration in the mid-20th century and was opened to the public as a museum. The castle now houses a collection of art and furnishings from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as exhibits on the history of the Forez region. The castle's gardens are also open to the public and include a formal garden, a rose garden, and a botanical garden. Today, the Château d'Essalois is a popular tourist attraction and an important part of the cultural heritage of the Loire Valley.
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