THE FRENCH RENAISSANCE

Reconstructing the past

An episode from the series LET YOURSELF BE TOLD

Synopsis

A true artistic and cultural explosion originating in Italy, the Renaissance introduced France to the genius of Leonardo da Vinci and inspired the construction of magnificent castles. This fascinating chapter in history gave rise to spectacular achievements such as the Hôtel de la Reine and the Samaritaine Pump, an astonishing hydraulic machine.

Why did King Francis I want to adorn the country with such splendor? Who was the enigmatic Catherine de' Medici really? And how did the Wars of Religion deeply divide the country?