A Brief Introduction to French Chateaux

Chateaux are a common sight all though France. You'll be stunned at just how many chateaux for sale there are in the country. In case you are looking to speculate in a French chateau, you must always have some idea about chateaux, and their varying historic and architectural values.

In truth the word “chateau” is very often misrepresented in English as “castles”. This is basically because the 2 words sound similar. The French word “chateau” basically indicates “country house” or “grand house” and were built and resided in generally by people belonging to the nobility. The chateaux also served as forts, to offer protection to the assets of the noblemen.

Different methods have been utilized at various periods of time to construct these chateaux. Chateaux built prior the 12th century used a combination of timber and earthworkr. Many of these chateaux remain untouched, some dating as far back as the 10th century. After the 12th century, stone was the primary material employed in the development of the chateaux. There are numerous different examples of chateaux built during this period with their fortifications still untouched.

During the Renaissance period, new architectural imfluences poured into France, chiefly from Italy. The Chateau de Chambord, situated in the Loire Valley, is quite possibly the best example of atchitectural design influenced by this Italian Renaissance period. Chateaux from the 15th century onwards show an interesting blend of the French medieval and Italian renaissance-style architecture. Some of the finest chateaux made in France include the ones at the the Vaux-le-Vicomte, Bordeaux and Loire Valley, not to mention the internationally famous Chateau de Versailles.

The French Revolution and the decline of aristocracy in France led to a lot of the chateaux being deserted. As a result, most of them were in such a dilapidated state that they required in depth renovation to be fit for residing again. During the last few decades, an interest has been revived among both foreign financiers and Frenchmen alike to preserve these attractive buildings, and many of them have been completely restored to their previous glory. You will find chateaux for sale that are well renovated as well as those that are short of refurbishment.

Andre Boultaire owns Luxury French Chateaux a website for those looking for a luxury French Chateaux for sale. The site provides an extensive choice of the best castles for sale in France, ideal for if you are looking to buy a chateau for sale Bordeaux, the dordogne or the South of France.

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