Château de Fontainebleau – Fontainebleau : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

If you’re looking to explore the history and beauty of France, Château de Fontainebleau offers an unforgettable experience! This grand palace, once frequented by monarchs, aristocrats, and other important figures, has been standing since at least the 12th century. From furniture, to art galleries, to historical monuments, Château de Fontainebleau is the perfect place to explore and discover the rich history of France. In this blog introduction, we’ll discuss some interesting facts about this remarkable palace, the fascinating things to see and do, and what you can expect from a visit. Get ready to explore one of France’s oldest and grandest palaces–Château de Fontainebleau!

Interesting Facts About Château de Fontainebleau – Fontainebleau

1. The château was once part of a hunting estate of the French kings, and has been in constant use since the 12th century.

2. The château also hosted some of the most famous literary and artistic figures in history, including Victor Hugo, Francois Rabelais, and Peter Paul Rubens.

3. It houses a collection of over 3,500 works of art, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Rubens and Delacroix.

4. The exterior of the château was used as the inspiration for the silhouette of the Palace of Versailles.

5. Its architects and craftsmen were many of the best in Europe during the Renaissance era.

6. The gardens of the château are renowned for their beauty and diversity, with elements such as romantic passages, streams, fountains, and an outdoor theatre.

7. King Charles V appointed the Italian architect Sebastiano Serlio to draw up plans for the refurbishment of the castle in 1541.

8. It has been used as a filming location in movies like Nanook of the North and La Grande Illusion.

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History & Information About Château de Fontainebleau – Fontainebleau

Château de Fontainebleau is a majestic royal palace located in Fontainebleau, France. It is one of the most important surviving French royal residences from the time of the French Renaissance.

The château is believed to have been constructed mainly in the 16th century under King Francis I. The building was originally part of a medieval hunting lodge and has since been expanded and transformed over the centuries. Its design was highly influential in the development of French Baroque style architecture.

The palace is known for its unique and beautiful galleries, as well as its various Royal apartments. It has been visited by such important historical figures as Napoleon, Louis XIV, and Queen Elizabeth I of England.

In 1800, Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte declared Fontainebleau to be an Imperial Palace, and it was used as his temporary residence throughout the 1800s. Today, the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is open to the public for visits and is one of France’s most popular tourist attractions.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Château de Fontainebleau – Fontainebleau

, France

Introduction

Once the home of kings, Château de Fontainebleau is a stunningly beautiful and historic palace located in the village of Fontainebleau, in north-central France. Set amid sprawling gardens, courtyards and parks, the beautiful Renaissance palace is one of the largest and impressive in the country. It is a popular tourist destination, drawing millions of visitors each year. Whether you are an admirer of French palace architecture, a history buff or simply looking for a magical palace experience, Château de Fontainebleau is not to be missed.

History

Château de Fontainebleau has a long and rich history, having served as the royal residence of French kings for nearly 800 years. It was first inhabited by the 10th century King Louis VI, and over the years, it has been expanded by a series of royal owners and hosts, including Louis XIV, Napoleon Bonaparte (the last monarch of France) and many others. Throughout its centuries of being a royal residence, the palace has served as a place of power and wealth, while also displaying ornate and sumptuous architecture.

How To Get There

Château de Fontainebleau is easily accessible by road and train. By car, the palace is located about 38 miles south of Paris, while by train, Fontainebleau is easily accessible from other major French cities, including Paris, which is only a 37-minute ride from Gare de Lyon station. There are several trains that run daily from the station, making it a convenient option for getting to the palace.

Inside the Palace

Within the palace walls, visitors can explore the incredible architecture of the building, as well as its many royal chambers, galleries and courtyards. The palace is known for its grand staircase, intricate frescoes and painted ceilings, as well as its substantial art collection, which houses works by masters such as Rembrandt and Rubens. A particularly breathtaking sight is the Garden of Diana, a stunning formal garden dating back to the 16th century, complete with fountains, statues and a summer pavilion.

Nearby Attractions

In addition to the palace itself, there are numerous other attractions in the area that should not be missed. One of the most beautiful and interesting of these is the picturesque village of Barbizon. Here, visitors can admire the charming, cobblestoned streets, local boutiques and picturesque natural scenery.

Another popular attraction is the magnificent forest of Fontainebleau. This sprawling wooded area has breathtaking views and plenty of pathways and paths for taking long, leisurely walks. For those looking for an outdoor adventure activity, there are plenty of boulders and rocks to climb.

Finally, for some art and culture, visitors should be sure to visit the nearby Musée de l’Histoire de l’Art Contemporain (Museum of Contemporary Art History). Through its exhibitions and interactive displays, the museum offers a fascinating look at the evolution of modern and contemporary art from the late 19th century up through the present day.

Conclusion

From its impressive architecture and grounds to its abundant art and history, Château de Fontainebleau is a must-see destination in France. Its interesting and extensive history as a royal residence makes it even more of a draw for visitors, and its close proximity to other amazing attractions is the perfect excuse to take a leisurely day trip in the area. Whether you are an avid history buff or just someone looking to distract themselves with a day of wonder and beauty, this spectacular palace is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Château de Fontainebleau – Fontainebleau

Castle

Q: What is the history of Château de Fontainebleau?
A: Château de Fontainebleau is an historic French royal palace located in the commune of Fontainebleau, in the department of Seine-et-Marne, Île-de-France. It was originally constructed in the 12th century as a royal hunting lodge and has since been extended, renovated and remodeled multiple times, making it the longest-occupied castle in France. It has served as a residence for French kings and emperors from Louis VII through Napoleon III.

Q: Where is Château de Fontainebleau?
A: Château de Fontainebleau is located in the commune of Fontainebleau, in the department of Seine-et-Marne, Île-de-France, France.

Q: How much does it cost to visit Château de Fontainebleau?
A: The cost for an adult ticket is €11. For families/groups, it is €26. Children under 16 years old have free admission. Special prices may be applicable for certain exhibitions.

Q: What are the opening hours of Château de Fontainebleau?
A: The castle is open daily from 10am to 5:30pm. It is closed on January 1, May 1, December 25, and December 31.

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