Home to two of the most beautiful galleries in France, the Château de Gizeux is a a true treasure of the Loire Valley, both for its rich history and for the many activities and events that bring it to life today. The oldest parts of the castle are reminiscent of the family of the poet Joachim du Bellay, owner of Gizeux for 350 yearsDuring these more than three centuries, the Du Bellay family made numerous modifications to the building, transforming it from medieval austerity to Renaissance charm.
Among the many rooms in the castle, two are particularly remarkable: the François I Gallery and the King's Castles GalleryThe first, created at the end of Henry IV's reign, was designed by Italian artists at the request of Marie d'Yvetot, wife of Martin du Bellay. She thus had the gallery known as "François I" decorated in numerous remarkably well-preserved paintings and mythological scenesThe King's Castle Gallery, a true source of pride for the monument, was created around 1680. These are not no less than 400 m² of murals which showcase the royal castles of Chambord, Vincennes, Fontainebleau and Versailles. These prestigious historical monuments are complemented by charming pastoral and bucolic scenes, emblematic of rural life at the time.
A visit to Gizeux Castle also allows you to Immerse yourself in the heart of the 18th century with the discovery of the main building and the small salons. which comprise it. Marquetry furniture and Louis XV armchairs decorate these elegant rooms, whose furnishings are listed as historical monuments. The kitchen, which can be seen during the tour, was functional until the 1970s, thus constituting a precious testimony to life in a château during the 20th century. A wood-burning stove is still present, as is a large collection of copperware, including a turbot pot, a jam-making pan, and various dishes and pots. More recent history also engages visitors in the cellars, which served as a hiding place for members of the French Resistance during the Second World War, even as the Germans occupied the château. The château's first central heating system, installed in the 19th century, is also located there—a sign of modernity for the time.
In addition to 15th-century chapel and incredible 18th-century stablesthe owners of Gizeux Castle, Géraud and Stéphanie de Laffon, also offer to to stay in this idyllic setting by enjoying guest rooms furnished with old-world charm and modern comforts. They also keep this precious heritage alive on a daily basis through multiple fun and engaging activities for young and old Self-guided or guided tours, costumed or storytelling, by day or by candlelight. numerous workshops offered to children (gardening, storytelling and snacks, bread oven, coat of arms) bring today all the life that has always defined this incredible castle of Gizeux.
- Continue your exploration of the Loire Valley with the circuit Around Chinon within which this castle is situated.
