Katherine Briçonnet facts for kids
Katherine Briçonnet (born around 1494, died 1526) was a French noblewoman. She was the daughter of Guillaume Briçonnet and the wife of Thomas Bohier.
Katherine was very important in the design and building of the famous Château de Chenonceau. Her husband bought the land, which had an old ruined castle on it. He wanted to build a new, grand castle in the Renaissance style.
Building the Château de Chenonceau
Katherine Briçonnet was in charge of the building work for the Château de Chenonceau. She supervised the construction between 1513 and 1521. This was a big job, and she made many important choices about the castle's design. Her husband, Thomas Bohier, was often away fighting in wars during this time.
One special feature she oversaw was the castle's staircase. Unlike most staircases at the time, which were spiral-shaped, Katherine designed one that went straight upwards. This was a very practical and modern design for its time.
The castle was finished in 1524. Sadly, Thomas Bohier died shortly after its completion. Katherine herself passed away two years later.
You can still see the initials "TBH" (for Thomas Bohier and Katherine) carved into the castle. There's also a motto on a door that says: "S'il vient à point, me souviendra." This means, "If I manage to build Chenonceau, I will be remembered."
The part of the castle that Katherine Briçonnet completed is known as the "Château des Dames." This name means "Castle of the Ladies." It got this name because other powerful women, like Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Médicis, later added to and changed the castle.
See also
