21 Feb 2008 02:01:56 | Jakob Jelling
Chinon is an old French town located in the area of Val de
Loire. This town is surrounded by two rivers, the Vienne and the
Loire, as well as by an important extension of country land.
Besides its geographical attributes, and strongly related to
them, this area produces excellent wine which causes it to be
world wide famous.
The surrounding country lands are one of Chinon's main
attractions due not only to their natural beauty but to the
antique buildings located within them as well. This way, it is a
must to visit these country land spots and learn where the main
different constructions are in order to make sure of heading
towards them as well.
Chinon started gaining importance within the region of Loire
Valley in the middle Ages while Henry II was king of England.
During this period of time, this castle was re arranged and
often inhabited by king Henry II since it had become one of his
favorite residences. This way, within the next years since first
discovered by Henry II, Chinon castle and the entire region
received a constant attention and was always looking as
beautiful as possible due to the king’s orders.
At beginnings of the 13th century, the town of Chinon became
part of the Royal Estates which belonged to the French crown.
Then, during the hundred years’ war, the town of Chinon gained
importance again due to the fact that Charles VII started
visiting this town very often and even inhabit in it for
important periods of time.
Charles VII and his court made this area very famous within the
region and the entire France as well, attracting people to it in
a constant basis. Towards the last years of the 1420's, Joan of
Arc could also be seen among the visitors of this area since she
would come to see Charles VII along with other people.
During the 16th century, the town of Chinon lost its last royal
inhabitants. After that, during the 17th century, Chinon became
part of Duke Richelieu estates, and due to the lack of attention
the main Castle received in that period, it started loosing the
charm and importance it had made it famous during the precedent
centuries.
About Author :
Jakob Jelling is the founder of Eurotomic.com. Please visit
http://www.eurotomic.com/france.php if you're planning a trip to
France.