Château de Chambord launches €30 million crowdfunding campaign for restoration after structural decay
The Château de Chambord, the second most frequented castle in France, has initiated a €30 million crowdfunding effort to address significant structural issues in the François I Wing, which have arisen due to flooding and drought. In 2023, there were incidents where 20 individuals fell through the floor, although no serious injuries were reported. Pierre Dubreuil, the director general appointed in 2023, closed parts of the wing last summer and commenced fundraising in September. The restoration project, planned in three phases, requires €12 million for Phase One, starting this year, and €15 million for Phase Two, which will involve a complete overhaul and the installation of an elevator. Last year, the castle attracted 1.2 million visitors. Contributions are welcome, with a 75% tax deduction available for donations below €1,000. The wing is expected to reopen in 2032.
Key facts
- Château de Chambord is France's second-most visited castle after Versailles
- The castle launched a €30 million crowdfunding campaign for restoration
- Structural damage in the François I Wing includes warped walls and cracks due to foundation issues
- In 2023, 20 people fell through the floor with no major injuries
- Director general Pierre Dubreuil was appointed in 2023 and closed parts of the wing last summer
- The castle welcomed 1.2 million visitors last year but ranks 15th on France's heritage budget list
- Restoration is split into three phases totaling €37 million, with Phase One starting this year at €12 million
- The François I Wing is scheduled to reopen in 2032
Entities
Artists
- Leonardo da Vinci
- Francis I
- Pierre Dubreuil
Institutions
- UNESCO
- Château de Chambord
- French government
Locations
- France
- Loire Valley
- Versailles
- Chambord