Chateaux of the Loire Valley

The architectural heritage of the French kings is nowhere as present as in the Loire valley. Magnificent castles, sophisticated gardens and sweeping parks demonstrate both the monarchs’ power and appreciation of art, attracting and fascinating uncounted visitors to this day. 60 of these works of art have been captured in brilliant color photographs for this volume: the Hall of the States General at Blois, the Saumur and Angers fortresses, the picture-postcard castle of Azay-le-Rideau, built in the middle of a river, and, impressive and shrouded in legend, the massive Chambord castle. The substantial texts discussing the individual castles are complemented by a map, a timetable, a genealogy of the kings of France, a glossary and a bibliography. A fascinating book for all lovers of the Loire valley, all travelers and anyone with an interest in history. Jean-Marie Pérouse de Montclos studied at the Paris Institute for Political Studies and received his doctorate from the faculty of humanities. He is the author of a great number of articles and books on Early Modern architecture. He was vice-president of the National Commission for the Protection of Historic Buildings and he is a member of the French Academy of Architecture in Paris.