Château d'Ancy-le-Franc

Château d'Ancy-le-Franc, located in the small town of Ancy-le-Franc in Burgundy, France, is one of the region's most spectacular Renaissance castles, featuring a remarkable blend of architectural and decorative elements. It was built between 1540 and 1560 by the architect Sebastiano Serlio for the influential Anne de Clermont-Gallerande family, mixing elements of Italian and French styles to create a palace filled with views and surprises. This beautiful Italian-style château comprises a central body and two side wings flanking two courtyards. Adorned with its formidable towers, battlements and round turrets, the château stands out for its beautiful Renaissance-style interiors, including the main staircase, the gallery, and the chapel. For visitors, the major highlight of the castle is the Salle de Gare, one of the first rooms built at the castle, currently holding over 800 Renaissance paintings.