Showing posts with label Chateau de Blois. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chateau de Blois. Show all posts

Wednesday, 11 March 2026

Wednesday for windows - La Maison de la Magie in Blois.

One of our favourite sets of windows in the Loire Valley can be found at the remarkable Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin in Blois.

Located directly across from the courtyard of the magnificent Château Royal de Blois, this unusual building surprises visitors every half hour when several large golden dragon heads suddenly emerge from the windows and balconies. The animated display is playful, theatrical, and perfectly suited to the museum’s magical theme.

The museum is dedicated to the famous 19th-century illusionist Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, widely considered the father of modern magic. Born in Blois, he revolutionized stage magic and inspired many performers who followed.

The façade itself becomes part of the show. At scheduled times the dragon heads extend dramatically from the windows as if the building itself were alive—an unexpected and entertaining spectacle in the historic heart of the city.

Location: Opposite the courtyard of the Château Royal de Blois, Blois, Loire Valley

If you visit Blois, try to time your walk through the square so you can see the dragons appear—it’s a fun moment that delights both children and adults.

Nearby: Just steps away is the beautiful Château Royal de Blois, one of the most historically significant castles in the Loire Valley, once home to several French kings.

Bon mercredi dans la vallée de la Loire !

 

“Through every window, the Loire breathes — calm, patient, and quietly luminous.”


Part of the “Windows of the Loire” Series

Each Wednesday, we share a glimpse of the Loire Valley through its windows — small frames of everyday beauty and quiet reflection.

See more from Experience Loire

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Monday, 28 February 2022

Monday's Loire Valley chateau - Chateau de Blois and its spiral staircase.


One of the most renowned architectural features of Chateau de Blois is the spiral staircase in the François I wing. Domenico da Cortona. an Italian architect, is credited with its design. He was invited to France by Charles VIII and remained in the service of François I.

external view of the spiral staircase at chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley

Internal view of the spiral staircase at chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley






Sunday, 10 June 2018

Loire Valley church for Sunday, Saint-Calais Chapel


Today we feature the Saint-Calais Chapel within the chateau at Blois,or what's left of it!


It was once the private chapel of Louis XII and Anne of Brittany




Wednesday, 6 June 2018

The many faces of Chateau de Blois

Louis XII wing of Chateau de Blois

We returned yesterday for a revisit to Chateau de Blois,not our original destination it has to be said but a good visit none the less.

View of Louis XII wing of Chateau de Blois from the courtyard

We had intended visiting this years International Garden Festival at Chaumont-sur-Loire but the weather was against us so thus the change of plan.


Although we have visited the city often it had been quite some time since we visited the inside of the chateau itself. It we good to be reacquainted with its many historical and architectural facets.


Saturday, 21 April 2018

Illuminating Chateau de Blois


A new Sound and Light Show at Chateau de Blois was inaugurated last night for the coming season. It will continue until the 23rd of September. The show tells the history of the chateau by illuminating the walls within its impressive main courtyard. It lasts around 45 minutes covering over a 1,000 years of history.

Opening hours:

21st April to 23rd September: every evening (except 21/06 and 13/07) April, May and September : 10.00pm / June, July and August: 10.30pm

Rates:

Adult: 10.50 € - reduced price: 9 € - child (aged 6 -17): 6.50 €

Combined ticket (chateau + Sound and Light show): 19.50 € - 15.50 € - 10.50 €