This chateau has 440 rooms and is the largest and one of the most enchanting of the Loire chateaux. A chateau was originally built here by the counts of Blois, from which huge hunting parties were organised. In 1519 Francois I completely demolished the castle and in its place built a real showpiece, no expense spared. Even when the treasury was empty the builders carried on building. To settle the finances he allowed the church treasures to be taken. The chateau has belonged to the French State since 1930.