It's not just us who've been confined to our homes in the Touraine Loire Valley. Over the centuries there have been plenty of people kept in varying states of restriction here.
Eleanor of Aquitaine was imprisoned by her husband Henry II Plantagenet at the chateau-fortress of Chinon. Going back to the 12th century, 1173 to be precise, Eleanor had been queen of England for 20 years, when she organised a conspiracy to elevate her three sons, Richard, Geoffrey and Henry the Younger, against their father the king.
This revolt was supported by Eleanor's first husband Louis VII of France, and the king of Scotland. Eleanor hoped to seize power from Henry II, but she was captured whilst travelling to try to join the court of Louis VII.
Chateau-fortress of Chinon.
She was imprisoned for nearly 15 years, first of all at the chateau-fortress of Chinon, then at Salisbury and other English castles, until her liberation on the death of Henry on 6 July 1189.
Also held at the chateau-fortress of Chinon were the leaders of the Knights Templar.
If you want to include this historic and atmospheric castle in your tour, just let us know. To enquire about our private guided tours of chateaux, wineries, markets and more email us or use our contact form. More tour ideas can be found on the Loire Valley Time Travel website.