Blois

　　Blois is a city and prefecture in the Loir-et-Cher department in central France, located between Orléans and Tours and straddling the banks of the Loire River. This city has a long history but was first mentioned in written records during the Middle Ages. In the 16th century, it served as a royal retreat, and it is also the birthplace of both King Stephen of England and King Louis XII of France.

　　The most famous attraction in Blois is the Château de Blois, located in the city center. It is one of France’s renowned royal castles, where seven kings and ten queens of France once resided, making it an excellent place to appreciate the evolution of French court architecture. Additionally, the art gallery on the second floor of the château houses paintings and sculptures from the 16th to the 19th centuries. In summer, various cultural events are held here, such as medieval music performances during the day and evening light shows after dark.

　　Other sights worth visiting include the 18th-century stone bridge over the Loire River, the winding and steep mountain paths, the La Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin (Robert-Houdin House of Magic) established in 1998, and the Blois Cathedral of Saint-Louis, which dates back to the 12th century.

　　Blois Must-visit reason: Birthplace of King Louis XII of France Continent: Europe【Europe】 Country/Region: France[France] Province/State: Centre Region [Centre Region] City: Blois [Blois]