Amboise

Amboise is a commune in the Indre-et-Loire department in the Centre-Val de Loire region of central France. It lies on the left bank of the Loire River, opposite the Chaumont-sur-Loire area, and lies about 27 kilometers east of Tours. Amboise is part of the historic Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its medieval towns, châteaux, and wine production.

Historically, the town grew around the Château d'Amboise, a fortress and royal residence that became a favored seat of the French monarchy in the 15th and 16th centuries. The château’s chapel is associated with the burial of some monarchs, and the site is closely linked to Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his last years in the area. He died in 1519, and the story places his burial at the Château d'Amboise. The nearby Clos Lucé, where da Vinci resided from 1516 until his death, is now a museum devoted to his life and inventions.

Today, Amboise relies on tourism, wine production from the surrounding Loire Valley, and agriculture. The historic center preserves medieval streets and stone houses along a riverfront promenade. The town is connected to regional rail networks and major roads, facilitating access from Tours and other Loire Valley towns. Amboise serves as a popular base for visitors exploring the châteaux, cultural heritage, and culinary traditions of the Loire Valley.