Leonardo da Vinci's remains were moved to this chapel in 1863 after his original tomb in the former collegiate church of Saint-Florentin was destroyed.
The chapel's tympanum depicts Saint Hubert, the patron saint of hunters, experiencing a vision of a crucifix between a stag's antlers.
The structure is built primarily from tuffeau stone, a porous, light-colored limestone commonly used in Loire Valley architecture.
King Charles VIII commissioned the chapel to provide a private place of worship for the royal family while in residence at Amboise.
The chapel is one of the few remaining structures of the former larger castle complex that survived the destruction following the French Revolution.
The Chapel of Saint-Hubert is a late Gothic masterpiece located within the grounds of the Château Royal d'Amboise. It is best known as the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci, whose tomb is marked by a stone slab within the chapel. The building dates back to the late 15th century and was commissioned by King Charles VIII. Its exterior features a flamboyant Gothic style, notably decorated with a depiction of the legend of Saint Hubert and the stag. The portal is adorned with intricate sculptures of hunting scenes and religious iconography. It serves as a funerary chapel, significantly contrasting with the main residential wings of the château. The interior is compact and features a high-vaulted ceiling typical of the period. The chapel underwent major restoration work in the 19th century to repair damage sustained during the French Revolution.
From the terrace edge looking back at the chapel to capture the steeple against the sky.
Combine your visit with a walk through the château gardens for a better view of the chapel's external architecture.
Look for the plaque indicating the precise location of Leonardo da Vinci's burial.
The chapel is small; plan to spend time admiring the intricate facade carvings before entering.
Do not attempt to touch the stone carvings or the burial slab.
Maintain silence as it is a place of burial; maintain modest dress typical for religious sites.
