The spiral staircase is the centerpiece of this chateau, one of the most “awe inspiring Renaissance constructions” a collaborative effort by French and Italian artists. The outer walls each have a smaller spiral staircase in the corners, as well as four on the corners of the inner sanctuary. Here we learned about famous men from 1515 to 1883, each with their contribution to the chateau. Four of the famous men had their own emblems, a porcupine, an ermine, a swan with an arrow going through it and a salamander.

We did not explore the gardens much, because it was too hot.

• Europe 2022