The French Renaissance was a vibrant cultural movement that began in the late 15th century and lasted into the early 17th century. It marked a period of renewed interest in art, literature, and science, inspired by the earlier Italian Renaissance. Artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo influenced French painters, leading to masterpieces that celebrated humanism and nature. During this time, notable figures such as François Rabelais and Michel de Montaigne emerged in literature, exploring new ideas and philosophies. The construction of grand châteaux, like Château de Chambord, showcased the era's architectural innovation, blending Gothic and classical styles, reflecting the spirit of exploration and creativity that defined the French Renaissance.