Chenonceau

Château de Chenonceau

Chenonceau Castle was exceptional.  The site is not only well designed but has been well preserved thanks to the tenacity of a few women.  Its decorations and destiny were lovingly protected by women, who were all extraordinary in their own right and definitely left their mark on the landscape. 

“Château des Dames” was built by Katherine Briçonnet, embellished by Diane de Poitiers (the King's lover) and later after his death, Catherine de Medici (the King's wife). Chenonceau was protected from destruction a few centuries later by Madame Dupin.  

It was at this castle the group decided to subtitle the trip "Château des Dames avec forte pantaloons"  (Chateau of women with strong pants (balls)).

View of Chenonceau from Catherine's garden.  

Butcher cleavers from the butcher's kitchen.

Another part of the kitchen, we think where produce was stored?  Herbs etc.

Baking kitchen.  Really these kitchen's were superbly designed, well ventilated and the windows provided light.  It had to have been a real honor to work in the castle (relatively speaking of course.)

Side view of castle.

Customary view of Chateau. 

Catherine's bedroom - the H-C-D symbols entwined were to represent the union of Catherine and Henry, but could also be construed as the union between Henry and Diane (his lover).  

A view of Diane's garden from the covered bridge.

The kitchen's were something to be seen.  These are copper pots and lids in the butcher's kitchen.  

The group heading back to the car, past the outer building, which was likely the stables.  

Preparing déjeuner alongside the moat of the castle.  Nearby ducks were waiting for bits of bread.  

Champagne, vin Rose, duck terrine (pate), chocolate eclairs, brie and other fromages (cheeses). 

Bon appetit!

One of the beautiful spaces in the outer garden, near the labyrinth.  

The gardener's cottage.  All agreed it would not be too bad to be the Queen's gardener.  

Another view of Chenonceau - showing guard tower, and adjacent draw bridge.