Nestled on two hills above the right bank of the Loire River, this enchanting town is distinguished by exquisite elegance.
Blois architecture diversifies the grandeur of the past residents. Dominating the city landscape are the magnificent Château de Blois (once home to the kings of France) and Cathédrale Saint-Louis, both of which overlook the spectacular River Valley. Blois became prominent in the 15th century, and the Renaissance spirit was felt throughout the city. Earl Blois's Hoelsels particuliers, the impressive aristocratic castle and the houses of exotic half-wooden guards give the historic area a special space.
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1. Château Royal de Blois
One of the top attractions in the River Valley, the majestic Château Royal de Blois has an illustrious history. Famous residents include the Duke of Orleans, the seven kings of France, the prince/poet Charles d'Orléans and several Count Blois who led the Crusades.
Built from the 13th to the 17th centuries, the castle is a marvelous Renaissance architecture with ornate loggia, galleries and oriel windows.
Tourists cross Louis XII wing (built from 1498 to 1503). Over the doorways appears the crowned porcupine, the emblem of Louis XII. The Salle des Etats are remnants of the castle from the 13th century, and the Francis I wing has a richly decorated octagonal staircase.
2. Vieux Blois (Old Town)
The historic center of Blois has a unique old-world atmosphere. Vieux Blois is characterized by the houses of handsome half-wooden guards, narrow sidewalks and picturesque stairs. Just east of Saint-Louis Cathedral is the 18th-century Ancien Evêché, the Palace of the former Bishop, now the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall).
The adjoining gardens, the Jardins de l'Évêché, are classified as a "Jardins Remarquables" (Remarkable Gardens) and are definitely worth visiting. Created in the 17th century, the expansive green space includes the Rose Garden (Roseraie) with a great variety of flowers and a terrace with views of the River Valley landscape.
The Jardins de l'Évêché is open year-round with extended hours in summertime. The Rose Garden is open from May 15th through September 30th.
3. Maison de la Magie (House of Magic)
In Maison Massé, opposite Château Royal, this unique museum is the only museum in Europe devoted entirely to magic as a performing art. The museum takes visitors into the magical world of magic while offering a surprisingly entertaining experience.
Visitors are amazed by the museum's creative presentation, including a fire-breathing dragon that appears every half hour.
In an exhibition space of 2,000 square meters, a large area dedicated to the famous magician Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin, who was born in Blois. Several rooms present Houdin's life and work.
There are also exhibits that explain the history of magic art and other areas displaying many optical illusions. Throughout the year, the museum introduces magic shows with award-winning artists and other talented magicians.
4. Eglise Saint-Nicolas
Eglise Saint-Nicolas stands in the shadow of the Château de Blois in historic Blois district, where narrow streets are lined with special old houses. Formerly a Benedictine monastery church, the building was built between the 12th and 13th centuries.
Saint-Nicolas Church features early Gothic art, including the beautiful capital. The sumptuous facade features three portals topped by a harmonious gallery of arches. An exquisite rose window allows light to filter into the sanctuary. An unusual detail is a giant gutter above the rose window.
Inside the church, visitors are awed by the bright sanctuary, which is illuminated by artistic stained-glass windows. Numerous modern windows, creating a stark contrast to the ancient structure.
Address: Parvis Saint-Nicolas, 41000 Blois
5. Eglise Saint-Vincent-de-Paul
In the heart of Blois near Château de Blois, this 17th-century church shows its Baroque style with its graceful proportions. The Church of Saint Vincent de Paul was constructed over many years and was finally completed thanks to donations from Gaston d'Orléans.
Typical of a Jesuit church, the facade features three levels of Doric and Corinthian columns. The ornately decorated interior has a sense of drama with its carved red marble columns and opulently adorned chapels.
The church displays many fine sculptures, including two commemorative monuments. Surrounding the church are overgrown gardens that offer a sense of tranquility.
Address: Place Victor Hugo, 41000 Blois
6. Cathédrale Saint-Louis
Saint-Louis Church stands on high ground in the old town, northeast of Château de Blois. There was a church on this site in the early Christian period, rebuilt and changed in the 12th, 16th and 17th centuries.
However, the cryptocurrency dates back to the original church of the 10th century. The church was destroyed by a hurricane in 1678. In addition to the church, the tower, and the western facade, the church was completely rebuilt.
The intricate gothic architecture interior stunned visitors with its spaciousness. The church has contemporary stained glass windows by artist Jan Dibbets. Free guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the cathedral and its stained-glass windows.
Address: Place Saint-Louis, 41000 Blois
7. Eglise Saint-Saturnin
One of the oldest churches in Blois, Saint Saturnin church was built on the foundation of a pre-Roman chapel. Anne de Bretagne provided donations that allowed enough funds to reconstruct the building in the 16th century.
Unfortunately, the church became a victim of the Religious War; It was damaged in 1568 and later restored in the 16th century. The interior stunned visitors with its beautiful gothic architecture. Other noteworthy architectural and artistic elements are the hexagonal staircase, vibrant stained-glass windows, fine paintings, and statues.
Address: 13 Rue Munier, Blois
8. Jardin de Plantes Médicinales
An amazingly calm oasis in Vieux Blois (Old Town), this flavorful garden is surrounded by the ancient walls behind the church. The lush green space flourishes with vibrant flowers and leafy trees, which attract many chirping birds.
However, the garden, also known as the "Jardin des Cinq Sens" (Garden of the Five Senses), is distinguished by its variety of aromatic herbs and medicinal plants.
One of the most delightful things to do in Blois explores this garden and become immersed in a glorious sensory experience of sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. Admire the colorful flowers, listen to the soothing bird voices, recognize the aroma of herbs, feel the texture of the plants and even taste some edible herbs.
The garden is open year-round Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5:30 pm. The entry is free.
Address: Place Saint-Louis, Blois
9. Festivals
In the summer, the city of Blois hosts a vibrant festival called "Des Lyres d'été". Held in July and August, the festival includes a series of outdoor performances: music concerts, cinema, dance, street theater, storytelling, circus acts, and magic tricks.
Events take place in public squares throughout the city center and at the Creusille port along the Loire. There are also fireworks and a concert on the opening night.
Another interesting festival, "Carnaval de Blois", takes place in March. An event admired by many fans, the Blois Carnival celebrates the end of the winter with a parade of bands and street theaters.
A jubilant procession winds through the city from Place du Chateau all the way to the Place de la République. In keeping with the festive spirit, the event ended with the highly anticipated performance at Halle aux Grains (2 Place Jean Jaurès).
10. Fondation du Doute: Museum of Contemporary Art
The Fondation du Doute is a daring museum of contemporary art focused on the period of 1960 to 1970. The gallery displays works by more than 50 artists, including a total of about 300 works.
The 1,500-square-meter gallery space represents a diverse array of works, which allows for an in-depth appreciation of contemporary art. The platform encourages visitors to discuss, ask questions and challenge their perception of art.
Bringing the art world to your lunch break, the museum has a trendy casual restaurant, Café le Fluxus, serving snacks and pastries in a creative setting. Occasionally the café is open in the evenings for concerts and other events.
Address: 14 Rue de la Paix, Blois
More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Battipaglia
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