What is the Castle in 'The Serpent Queen', Season 2? Uncover the Majestic Château de Chambord

What is the Castle in The Serpent Queen, Season 2? Uncover the Majestic Château de Chambord

If the breathtaking castle featured in the Season 2 premiere of STARZ's "The Serpent Queen" captivated you, you're in for a treat! This architectural masterpiece is Château de Chambord, an iconic landmark nestled in the heart of France's Loire Valley. This stunning location takes center stage in season 2, episode 1, setting the tone for the season's drama, intrigue, and opulence.

For "The Serpent Queen" Fans: Experience Château de Chambord for Yourself

The good news? You don't have to be royalty to experience the grandeur of Château de Chambord. It's a popular tourist destination welcoming visitors from around the world. Let the show inspire your next adventure and follow in the footsteps of Catherine de' Medici (sort of!).

châteaux de chambord

Plan Your Loire Valley Adventure

Escape the hustle and bustle of Paris and immerse yourself in the slower pace and gentler rhythms of the Loire Valley. Here, life unfolds at a more leisurely pace, with charming towns, rolling countryside, and a deep connection to nature and history.

Château de Chambord is just one of the many treasures the Loire Valley has to offer. Here's how to make the most of your visit:

Day Trip from Paris: Several tour companies offer convenient day trips from Paris. Check out Get Your Guide for cost effective options.

Overnight Stay: For a more immersive experience, consider spending a night or two in the Loire Valley. Charming towns like Blois or Amboise offer great bases for exploring. Find the perfect accommodation on Hotels.com.

Beyond Castles and Wine

While the Loire Valley is famous for its châteaux and vineyards, there's so much more to discover:

• Cycling: Pedal along scenic routes, following the Loire River or exploring the vineyards.

• Gardens: Visit the stunning gardens of Villandry, Chaumont-sur-Loire, or the quirky topiaries of Marqueyssac.

• History: Explore medieval towns like Chinon or Angers, home to imposing fortresses and charming streets.

• Cuisine: Sample the region's fresh produce, goat cheese, and delectable desserts.

• River Cruises: Glide along the Loire River, taking in the scenery from a unique perspective.

• Wine Tasting: The Loire Valley is renowned for its wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc (Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé), Chenin Blanc (Vouvray), and Cabernet Franc (Chinon). Be sure to visit some of the local wineries and indulge in tastings. Don't miss the chance to try renowned brands like Domaine Huet (Vouvray) and Alphonse Mellot (Sancerre).
  

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About The Serpent Queen

When did The Serpent Queen Season 2 premiere? 12 July 2024 on STARZ.

Who plays Queen Elizabeth I? The iconic Minnie Driver joins the cast as the "Virgin Queen."

Where was The Serpent Queen filmed? The The Serpent Queen was primarily filmed on location in France, taking full advantage of the country's stunning historical sites and châteaux. While the interiors of the palaces were often recreated in studios for logistical reasons, many of the exterior shots and gardens you see on screen are the real deal. Key locations include Château de Chambord (featured prominently in season 2, episode 1), Château de Chenonceau, other châteaux in the Loire Valley, Provence Studios (for interior scenes), and the Papal Palace in Avignon (representing the Vatican).

Is The Serpent Queen based on a true story? Yes, it's loosely based on the life of Catherine de' Medici, drawing inspiration from the book "Catherine de Medici: Renaissance Queen of France" by Leonie Frieda which is available on Kindle, Audible and in hardcopy.

A Brief History of Château de Chambord

Château de Chambord has witnessed numerous intriguing events throughout its history:

Construction: Started in 1519 by King Francis I as a hunting lodge.

Architectural Marvel: Features a distinctive double helix staircase, over 400 rooms, and elaborate rooftop terraces.

Famous Residents: Primarily used by French royalty for hunting expeditions and lavish festivities.

Theatrical Premieres: In 1670, Molière premiered his famous comedy, "Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme," at Chambord, entertaining King Louis XIV and his court.

Last Used As a Royal Residence: Primarily in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Haven for Art Treasures: During World War II, Chambord served as a safe haven for priceless art treasures from the Louvre and other French museums, protecting them from Nazi looting.

Restored Gardens: The château's gardens underwent a major restoration in 2017, bringing back to life the intricate designs and floral displays that once graced the grounds.

Today: A UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors with its rich history and stunning architecture.

These are just a few of the fascinating events that have taken place at Château de Chambord. Its history is filled with tales of royalty, art, war, and rejuvenation, making it a truly captivating destination.

Need More Inspiration?

Check out our Loire Valley destination guide for more information on castles, wineries, and other attractions or the organised tours below.

Let "The Serpent Queen" ignite your curiosity and embark on a journey through history, beauty, and the relaxed charm of the Loire Valley.

Book Château de Chambord entry tickets and day tours with Get Your Guide

Château de Chambord

Website of Château de Chambord

https://www.chambord.org/en/

Website of Loire Valley tourism

https://www.france.fr/en/destination/loire-valley/

Check out these official tourism websites for
more information.