Blois Dominating the Loire River, the royal castle of Blois is one of the most prestigious Renaissance monuments in France and a brilliant illustration of the evolution of the French architecture from the Middle ages to the 17th century. About the middle of the 10th century, Blois became the most important town in the region. The first stone castle was built to protect the town dates back to that period. The medieval remains still exist. The best preserved medieval tower is situated on a terrace overlooking the Loire. |