Mathurine's Secrets: Immerse yourself in the life of Leonardo da Vinci at the Château du Clos Lucé
Are you in Amboise and looking for a unique way to discover the Château du Clos Lucé?
The Val d’Amboise Tourist Office invites you to an extraordinary experience in the company of Mathurine, Leonardo da Vinci‘s faithful cook.
What is "Mathurine's Secrets"?
Offered by the Val d’Amboise Tourist Office, “Mathurine’s Secrets” is a costumed guided tour that takes place in the grounds of the Château du Clos Lucé.
The concept? Let yourself be guided by Mathurine, Leonardo da Vinci’s cook and servant. She comes to life as a guide dressed in period clothing—a long skirt, corset, and flowing chemise. It is through her eyes, those of a woman in the shadows serving the greatest genius of the Renaissance, that we (re)discover the fascinating life of her master.
As we stroll through the park, Mathurine recounts Leonardo’s arrival in Amboise, his close relationship with King Francis I, his many endeavors—painting, drawing, architecture, engineering, the art of war—and the little secrets of daily life at the château.
Our experience with Mathurine
As soon as we cross the threshold of the Château du Clos Lucé, Mathurine gives us a warm welcome. From the outset, the tone is set: we are no longer in 2026, but 500 years in the past. The guide embodies her character with a conviction that immediately wins us over. She leads us through the various symbolic spaces of the park: the château entrance, the kitchen garden, the gardens. She peppered each stop with anecdotes about the habits of her “avant-garde master.”
What strikes you first is the generosity of the approach: Mathurine doesn’t simply recite a text; she answers questions, engages visitors, and involves even the youngest. The tour is both playful and rich in historical content, without ever feeling austere. You learn countless details about the customs and traditions of the time, Leonardo’s ingenious inventions, and his relationship with Francis I—all presented with a truly light touch. In just one hour, you feel as though you’ve experienced something, as though you’ve effortlessly traveled back in time.
Why choose Mathurine over others?
The costumed and immersive format makes all the difference: where a traditional tour might rely more on memory, this one touches on emotion and imagination.
It’s suitable for children and adults alike, for history buffs and the simply curious. Mathurine’s dynamic and engaging teaching style leaves no one behind.
It’s also a wonderful way to experience Clos Lucé from a different perspective, by exploring the park before (or after) your tour of the château itself.
Useful information:
- The tour only covers the grounds of the Château du Clos Lucé in Amboise.
- Available Monday to Saturday during the season (see the ticket office for exact dates).
- The tour lasts approximately one hour.
- Suitable for all ages.
- This tour is in addition to the price of Château du Clos Lucé tickets (the entrance fee to the château is not included).
