History
article | Reading time2 min
Guess what's behind this impressive slate roof: an oak framework over 500 years old!
an exceptional view of the château's roof structure
With the King's permission
In 1517, King Francis Ist authorized Gilles Berthelotto harvest trees in the Chinon forest to build the framework of his château. This former royal estate is located a few kilometers from Azay-le-Rideau.
During the winter of 1517-1518, oak trees were felled with the king's exceptional authorization.
Four years later, the work was completed. It has come down to us in an exceptional state of preservation!
Léonard de Serres - Centre des monuments nationaux
A Renaissance technique
The construction of the roof structure at Château d'Azay-le-Rideau follows a technique characteristic of the Renaissance: the "surcroit" roof construction.
Do you know what makes it so special? Resting on purlins rafters are designed to support the battens, or voliges, on which the tiles or slates are laid. The walls supporting the roof frame rise well above the floor, allowing for dormer windows.
Did you know?
The cutting and assembly of the timbers that make up the frame are absolutely remarkable: the exceptional skills of 16th century carpenters have played a major role in the preservation of this structure over the centuries.
Perpetuated to the present day, the art of carpentry is listed as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2009.
Léonard de Serres - Centre des monuments nationaux
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75 tons That's the weight of the slates resting on the framework.
the worksite of the century
Between January 2015 and June 2017, the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau underwent a major project to renovate: the roof frames, all the roofing, the upper parts of the masonry, the sculpture and the woodwork.
The entire roof was removed and replaced by 75 tons of new slate from Spain!
Watch a behind-the-scenes video of this exceptional project:
Restoring the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau
video | Reading time1 min
