The Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes in France

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Le Val de Loire (Mission Val de Loire)
Préfecture de la région Centre (in French)
Region Centre (only in French)
Région des Pays de la Loire (only in french)

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2000
Size of heritage: 85,394 ha
- Buffer zone: 208,934 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 0,703°
Latitude: 47,399°

Summary

The Loire Valley is an outstanding cultural landscape of great beauty, containing historic towns and villages, great architectural monuments (the châteaux), and cultivated lands formed by many centuries of interaction between their population and the physical environment, primarily the river Loire itself.

Location on Map

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The Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes

The Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes, located in central France, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that stretches along the banks of the Loire River. This picturesque region is renowned for its exceptional cultural landscape, which combines natural beauty with a rich historical and architectural heritage.

History

The Loire Valley has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and its strategic location has made it a significant region throughout history. In the Middle Ages, it became the heartland of the French monarchy, with numerous castles and fortresses built along the river to protect the kingdom. The valley also served as a major trade route, connecting the north and south of France.

During the Renaissance, the Loire Valley experienced a period of great cultural and artistic flourishing. The French kings, particularly Francis I, were patrons of the arts and commissioned the construction of magnificent châteaux, such as Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau. These architectural masterpieces combined French Renaissance and Gothic styles, showcasing the opulence and power of the monarchy.

Throughout the centuries, the Loire Valley has witnessed significant historical events, including the Wars of Religion in the 16th century and the French Revolution in the 18th century. Despite these turbulent times, the region managed to preserve its architectural treasures and cultural heritage.

Current State

Today, the Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes is a living testament to the history and cultural richness of France. The region boasts an impressive collection of over 300 châteaux, ranging from medieval fortresses to elegant Renaissance palaces. These architectural gems are surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens, vineyards, and charming villages, creating a harmonious blend of nature and human creativity.

The Loire River, with its meandering course and lush green banks, adds to the enchanting beauty of the region. It is not only a scenic backdrop but also a vital ecosystem that supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. The river is also a popular destination for boating and river cruises, allowing visitors to explore the valley from a unique perspective.

The Loire Valley is not only a visual delight but also a gastronomic paradise. The region is renowned for its exceptional wines, particularly the white wines made from Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings and explore the vineyards, gaining a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking.

Furthermore, the Loire Valley hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its heritage and traditions. From music concerts to art exhibitions, these events offer a glimpse into the vibrant cultural scene of the region.

Address
Distance: 0,6 mi
6 Rue Du Cygne
37000 Tours
France

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Tours Cathedral, France

Published: December 02, 2008
Length: 52:53 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: deepinthewoods

Photos of Tours Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Gatien de Tours) built between 1170 and 1547.

French Trams: Tours, 26Sep14

Published: September 27, 2014
Length: 47:43 min
Rating: 5 of 5
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Published: September 14, 2014
Length: 24:34 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Zahir imadache

Vidéo du sermon de Aïd el-Fitr 2014 à la Mosquée de TOURS par Cheikh Zahir IMADACHE.

La Boutique Multi Services Habitat. ABUS Sportscam. La Caméra Sportive.

Published: April 12, 2013
Length: 00:22 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Victor Ferreira

ABUS Sportscam. La Boutique Multi Services Habitat. De nombreuses références en stock permanent. http://www.laboutiquemultiserviceshabitat.com.

Le Tourisme Religieux à Tours, France

Published: November 02, 2014
Length: 56:19 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Trinity Travel

Tours est une ville du centre de la France, chef du département de l'Indre-et-Loire. Il a été le siège d'apprentissage depuis le Moyen Age et exerce cette belle tradition à travers son...