 It became a favorite residence and hunting lodge of the Kings of France because of the abundant game and many springs in the surrounding forest.It took its name from one of the springs, the fountain de Bliaud, located now in the English garden, next to the wing of Louis XV.It was used by King Louis VII, for whom Thomas Becket consecrated the chapel in 1169; by Philip II; by Louis IX (later canonized as Saint Louis), who built a hospital and a convent, the "Couvent des Trinitaires", next to the castle; and by Philip IV, who was born and died in the castle.