French Renaissance

The History

The French Renaissance is considered to have taken place between the 15th and 17th century. Beginning roughly around the French invasion of Italy, the French renaissance comes from slow beginnings, and steadily vamps up with its apex lying between 1515-1559 during the reign of two kings.


Francois I is known for his tremendous influence over the the French Renaissance. Launching Renaissance art and architecture in France, and establishing France as a growing artistic center. However, it is important to note that French painters and artisans never reached the same popularity as Italian craftsman.


During Francois I reign, he invited Leonardo da Vinci - now elderly- to France in an effort to bolster Renaissance influence. Upon accepting Francois' invitation, Da Vinci then moved to France, bringing with him many of his paintings that still remain in France to this day. Most notably being his painting the  La Jaconde, or The Mona Lisa, which can be found in the The Louvre in Paris.

 

The Chateaus

 

 

 Primarily found in French speaking regions, the chateau is simply a residence of power. Throughout French history there have been lavish examples of these powerful structures. Most notably can be found the the Loire Valley. Over 300 chateaus in this single area, the valley has been named "The Valley of the Kings". Equally, its moderate climate and fertile soil has made it a prime locations for grape vineyards and wine production, thus being named "The Garden of France".

The Now