About this experience
No castle in France has seen as many crowned individuals as Fontainebleau! And now it is ready to welcome you. Within its walls, we will travel through three eras - Italian (Renaissance), French (Bourbons), and Imperial (Napoleon I). How did the castle change under different kings and emperors? What did they contribute to its architectural appearance?
What to expect
The journey from Paris to the castle will take about 1.5 hours.
The darling of kings - Fontainebleau
We will stroll around the castle's grounds and delve into its architecture - in what style was Fontainebleau built? Then we will tour its ceremonial halls, examine the luxurious interiors that reflect the change of historical epochs. Three periods can be distinguished:
Italian. Francis I ordered the old fortress to be demolished and a castle to be built in the Renaissance style. The real treasure of the residence is the 'Gallery of Francis', created by Italian masters. I'll tell you more about the decoration of Fontainebleau at that time, as well as the rivalry of three ladies - Catherine de Medici, Diane de Poitiers, and Duchess d'Etampes, around which legends circulated even then.
French. Henry IV - the founder of the Bourbon royal dynasty, completes the construction of the castle, changes the park around it. Later, in the second half of the 17th century, the Sun King leaves Fontainebleau and declares Versailles his residence. Life in the castle stands still - this saves it from ruin during the French Revolution.
Imperial. Napoleon Bonaparte restores the castle to its former glory, declaring it his residence. The lavish decorations of the throne room symbolize the power that the country achieved under its emperor.
Organizational details
- I will pick you up from a convenient location in Paris and drop you off afterwards
- The tour takes place in a spacious, comfortable car, a HONDA CR-V Exclusive (2022) with a panoramic roof
- Entrance tickets to the castle are paid additionally: adults - €14, children under 18 - free
Additional options (prices upon request)
- Visit to the famous Orthodox cemetery of Sainte-Genevieve-des-Bois, where distinguished representatives of the Russian emigration are buried
- Reservation of a table at a cozy restaurant, waiting time is paid separately
- Conducting a tour for a larger group of people
