A couple years ago I took a trip to France and visited Chateau Cheverny, Hergé's inspiration for Marlinspike.
Located in the Loire valley, the Chateau is a minor one, along the string of other castles, including the very impressive Chateau Chambord. Also, the interior is nothing like Marlinspike, being much more cozy. Still, it was fun to visit "Captain Haddock's Castle" and walk around the grounds. There is a zoo directly across from the Castle, and, of course, a gift shop with lots of Tintin-themed knick-knacks.
 |
| A comic shop in Poitiers display an impressive array of comic-related figurines, including Tintin and Haddock in the middle |
