About French Castles

  France has very aptly earned the epithet "country of castles”. The country is home to some of the most awe inspiring Chateaux of the world. Chateaux refer to a place of residence of the French nobility. The Loire valley in France is a famous site which contains about 300 castles. Due to the large number of impressive castles that are located in the region, the Loire valley is often referred to as the "Garden of France". The castles were constructed between the 9th and the 20th centuries. Initially it was only the French kings who built the castles. Later the members of the nobility started building castles as well.

  French Castles were initially called donjons. These were essentially fortifications against the attackers. The donjons subscribed to a simple rectangular design. Gradually these small structures started to assume massive proportions and spread throughout Normandy and France. It was William the conqueror who played an important role in castle building. It was under his influence that French castles began to be converted to mini palaces.

  It was during the Middle Ages that the French castles began to be transformed from formidable stronghold to elegant structures. The allies of the many French kings and other members of the aristocracy took over these fortresses and converted them into palaces. There are many different types of French castles including medieval castles, renaissance castles, Historic castles, Fairy tale castles, Dream castles and many more.

  The castles of France in the present day are hotels, winery buildings and museums. Most of the castles are of immense historical significance. These remind the tourists of the great past of France. UNESCO has taken an interest in the castles and has even marked some which should be taken good care of. Some of them have been renovated and restored to their former beauty and grandeur. The castles are architectural marvels and acquaint one with the rich culture and history of France.