Saint-Dyé, Chambord’s Port

The historic port of Chambord, this peaceful village on the left bank of the River Loire, used to be a bustling place, welcoming pilgrims, artisans, traders and a diverse range of goods. During the medieval period it was protected by a wall and you can still see the ruins of parts of it today.

From the 6^th century it was a place of pilgrimage to visit the relics of the hermit, Saint Deodatus (or Déodat). The village counts multiple monarchs and people of note amongst its visitors including Clovis, Louis XI, François I and Jean de la Fontaine. As well as wine and other local products, from 1519 the construction material for Domaine de Chambord was unloaded in the port to continue its journey to the building site, a few kilometres to the south. In 1773 the route royale linking Paris to Madrid was launched on the right bank leading to the village’s decline.

Today the riverbanks attract visitors with their charm, with avenues of trees and harmony between the buildings. The Maison de la Loire et du Loir-et-Cher has been sharing its knowledge of the natural and cultural riches of the river for the past thirty years. Recently refurbished, young and old are invited on a fun, interactive and sensory journey to discover the highs and lows of the port’s history and the river’s riches. A popular holiday destination, Saint-Dyé continues to maintain links with its famous neighbour.