Visit Amboise

Attracted by the Loire Valley ‘s World Heritage status and the town’s three châteaux, visitors from all over the world stroll through the shopping streets. Like them, admire Max Ernst’s fountain “aux cracheurs, aux drôles, au génie” (“the spitters, the funny ones, the genius”), and Alexander Calder’s Crinkly. On the Ile d’Or and on the north bank, two other works catch the eye: the sculpture depicting Leonardo da Vinciin the guise of an Ancient God (by Amleto Cataldi) and the Tour d’Or Blanc designed by Jean-Michel Othoniel.

Push open the door of the church of Saint-Florentin, built at the behest of King Louis XI. Max Ingrand’s stained glass windows filter the light, illuminating the works of art that are occasionally installed here. Once past the Bigot chocolate factory (a local institution since 1915!), look up to see the belfry, also known as the clock tower, in the Rue Nationale. Or take a seat on the terrace at the Oscar et Suzette dance hall!

And don’t forget the nearby Poterie en Folie and Verrerie d’Art d’Amboise!