Chambord Castle (France)

The construction began in 1519 and was to serve as the hunting seat of Francis I. The castle has about 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces and 84 staircases, plus the entire landscape of steeples, chimneys, lanterns and the famous double-helical staircase, allegedly designed by Leonardo da Vinci. On the second floor is a scary hunting museum. From July to mid-September, the facade of the chateau features free sound and light performances and open-air concerts take place in summer.