Château D'Écouen

When we were in France at New Year we visited this château which has become the National Museum of the Renaissance.

Its construction began in 1538 at the behest of Anne de Montmerency, High Constable of France and chief minister under Francis I(1515-1547) and Henry II (1547-1559). It became the the National Museum of the Renaissance in 1977. It provides the link between renaissance architecture and collections of decorative arts from the Musée de Cluny. Although some of the rooms were closed when we visited we did see many beautiful artefacts during our visit.

The Chateau showing the chapel at the left corner.

The inner courtyard where the visitors would dismount from their coaches or horses.

The ceiling of the chapel.

The organ.

And below are some pictures of the interior decoration. There were lots of faux painting escpecially around the fireplaces.

Among the artefacts on disply was this automaton called the nef of Charles V. Many of its parts move when the clockwork is wound up.

Other artefacts included a harpsicord and the celestial sphere

The ceilings were also decorated.

Sadly the rooms containing their collection of Iznic tiles from Turkey was not open when we visited. We shall just have to return.

Château d'Écouen