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Origin and history

The Bains de la Reine, also known as the Pavillon d'Anne de Bretagne, is a building built in the lower gardens of Blois Castle. This small square pavilion, made of stones and bricks, is flanked at each of its corners by four square pavilions covered with terraces. The balusters on these terraces bear the initials of Louis XII and d'Anne de Bretagne, while the cordière, the emblem of the Duchess, frame the brick tumblers of the facades. One of the pavilions houses an oratory, another contains the staircase.

Ranked a historic monument since 12 July 1886, this pavilion illustrates the architectural alliance between the flamboyant Gothic style and the early influences of the Renaissance, characteristic of the period of Louis XII and Anne of Brittany. Its location in the royal gardens, now gone, bears witness to the importance of the areas of relaxation and representation for the court of France in Blois, the favourite residence of the sovereigns in the Renaissance.

The pavilion is a vestige of the developments made under Louis XII (1498-1515) and Anne de Bretagne, which made Blois a place of power and culture. Although the gardens have been remodelled or destroyed over the centuries, this building remains as a symbol of the Breton heritage in the courtyard of France. Its structure, with its brick and stone decorations, also reflects the influence of Franco-Flamand architects, such as Colin Biart, who worked on the castle.

Owned by the municipality of Blois, the pavilion is now integrated into the castle estate, open to visitors. Its architecture, marked by residual defensive elements and royal ornaments, makes it a valuable witness to the transition between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The interlaced initials and the cordon recall the political and cultural marriage between Brittany and the Kingdom of France, sealed by Anne de Bretagne and Louis XII.

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