Esslingen Castle has been the city’s most recognizable landmark for almost 700 years. It was built originally in the 13th century and enhanced in 1519-1531. Preserved elements in the Old Town of the corresponding city wall include the Schelztor, the Pliensauturm and the Wolfstor. The castle is open to the public, and the famous Dicke Turm has also recently reopened for visits by guided tours. The ascent of more than 300 steps rewards visitors with a unique view over the city.
The Château du Lude is one of the many great châteaux of the Loire Valley in France. Le Lude is the most northerly château of the Loire Valley and one of the last important historic castles in France, still inhabited by the same family for the last 260 years. The château is testimony to four centuries of French architecture, as a stronghold transformed into an elegant house during the Renaissance and the 18th century. The monument is located in the valley of Le Loir. Its gardens have evolved throughout the centuries.