The Head of the Royal House of France, the Count of Paris, hosted a prestigious gathering at the Château d’Amboise, welcoming President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron of France, as well as President Sergio Mattarella of Italy. This historic event marked a significant milestone in the commemoration of 500 years since the death of the renowned artist and inventor, Leonardo da Vinci.
The occasion brought together the esteemed guests at the Château du Clos Lucé, where Da Vinci spent the final years of his life. The Count and Countess of Paris, accompanied by their children, Prince Gaston and Princess Antoinette d’Orléans, received the dignitaries with warmth and respect. The meeting aimed to highlight the importance of cultural heritage and the diplomatic role of the Head of the Royal House of France, a tradition upheld by the Orléans family throughout their history, including during their exile.
what were the main topics discussed during the meeting at Amboise
- Commemoration of Leonardo da Vinci’s Death: The gathering at the Château d’Amboise aimed to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of the renowned artist and inventor, Leonardo da Vinci.
- Cultural Heritage: The meeting highlighted the importance of cultural heritage and the diplomatic role of the Head of the Royal House of France, a tradition upheld by the Orléans family throughout their history, including during their exile.
These topics were central to the meeting, which brought together the Count of Paris, President Emmanuel Macron, and President Sergio Mattarella to celebrate the cultural significance of Amboise and the legacy of Leonardo da Vinci.
what was the role of Leonardo da Vinci in the meeting at Amboise
how did Leonardo da Vinci’s work influence the festivities at Amboise
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| The Head of the Royal House of France and the French President exchange greetings |
Today, 2 May, the Count and Countess of Paris received President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron of France as well as President Sergio Mattarella of Italy at the Château d’Amboise. Prince Gaston and Princess Antoinette d’Orléans accompanied their parents. The occasion for the gathering at Amboise was to commemorate 500 years since the death of Leonardo da Vinci.
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| Da Vinci by Francesco Melzi |
Da Vinci was born on 15 April 1452 at Vinci in the Republic of Florence. The Renaissance man died on 2 May 1519 at Amboise in the Kingdom of France. Da Vinci’s place of death occurred at the Château du Clos Lucé in Amboise, which was built in 1471 and still stands today.
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| As the Count and Countess of Paris look on, Prince Gaston shakes hands with Emmanuel Macron |
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| The French President bows to the Countess of Paris |
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| Princess Antoinette d’Orléans receives the greetings of Emmanuel Macron |
A portion of the communiqué released by the Royal House of France regarding this event reads as follows:
This meeting at Amboise, then at Clos Lucé and Chambord, is an opportunity to recall the importance of our tangible and intangible heritage, a sign of a united Europe at its roots, as well as of the diplomatic role of the Head of the Royal House of France, which the Orléans family has always taken to heart, including when it was in exile. The Count of Paris is the honorary president of the Saint-Louis Foundation, owner of the royal Château d’Amboise, where the brilliant artist Leonardo da Vinci is buried.
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| The full communiqué from the Count of Paris |
what are the main attractions at the Château d’Amboise
- Commemoration of Leonardo da Vinci’s Death: The gathering at the Château d’Amboise aimed to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of the renowned artist and inventor, Leonardo da Vinci.
- Cultural Heritage: The meeting highlighted the importance of cultural heritage and the diplomatic role of the Head of the Royal House of France, a tradition upheld by the Orléans family throughout their history, including during their exile.
These topics were central to the meeting, which brought together the Count of Paris, President Emmanuel Macron, and President Sergio Mattarella to celebrate the cultural significance of Amboise and the legacy of Leonardo da Vinci.
The meeting at Amboise, hosted by the Count of Paris, marked a significant milestone in the commemoration of 500 years since the death of the renowned artist and inventor, Leonardo da Vinci. This event brought together the esteemed guests, including President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron of France, as well as President Sergio Mattarella of Italy, to celebrate the cultural heritage and diplomatic role of the Head of the Royal House of France. The occasion was a testament to the enduring legacy of Da Vinci, whose work continues to inspire and influence people around the world.
As we reflect on this momentous occasion, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and the role that historical figures like Da Vinci play in shaping our understanding of the world. The meeting at Amboise served as a powerful symbol of unity and cooperation among European leaders, highlighting the significance of cultural exchange and the diplomatic role of the Head of the Royal House of France. As we move forward, it is crucial that we continue to honor the memory of Da Vinci and his contributions to human progress, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
what other significant events have taken place at the Château d’Amboise
- King Charles VIII’s Death: Charles VIII died at the château in 1498 after hitting his head on a door lintel.
- Italian War of 1494–1495: The château was extensively rebuilt during this period, with Italian architects and artisans brought in to work on the project.
- Leonardo da Vinci’s Residence: Da Vinci lived at the château from 1516 until his death in 1519, and it was here that he was buried in the Chapel of Saint-Hubert.
- Anne Boleyn’s Time at the Château: Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII, spent 7 years as a lady-in-waiting to Queen Claude at the château from 1515 to 1522.
- Mary, Queen of Scots’ Residence: Mary, Queen of Scots, spent 13 years of her life at the château after her betrothal to Francis II, moving there at the age of 5 under the watchful eye of Henry II and Catherine de’ Medici.
- Historical Re-enactments: The château is known for its historical re-enactments, which include the use of medieval weaponry and ancient hunting techniques.
- Royal Residence: The château has been a favourite royal residence for many French kings, including Charles VII, Francis I, and Louis XII.
These events have contributed to the château’s rich history and cultural significance, making it a significant tourist destination and a testament to the grandeur of France’s past.
