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Contents
What are the Grand Apartments in Château de Fontainebleau?
Nestled within the timeless beauty of Château de Fontainebleau lies a captivating marvel—the Royal Apartments. These apartments have witnessed the comings and goings of kings, queens, and emperors. As you enter the Grand Apartments, you'll be greeted by lavish interiors adorned with tapestries, gilded ceilings, and frescoes. Every step unveils a new chapter in history, offering a glimpse into the lives of France's illustrious rulers. From François I to Napoleon Bonaparte, these rooms have hosted the most influential figures of their time.
Marvel at theSalle des Colonnes, a room that boasts a ceiling adorned with gold leaf and a panoramic view of the surrounding gardens. Stroll through the Galerie des Cerfs, adorned with masterpieces by renowned artists such as Jean-Baptiste Corot and Jean-Baptiste Oudry. The Royal Apartments at Château de Fontainebleau are not merely rooms; they are a portal to a bygone era.
Quick Facts About the Grand Apartments
- Official name: Grand Apartments
- Address: Château de Fontainebleau, Fontainebleau, France
- Date of opening: Varies throughout history; portions date back to the 16th century
- Timings: April to September: 9:30 AM to 6 PM; October to March: 9:30 AM to 5 PM.
- Architect: Multiple architects, including Gilles Le Breton, Philibert de l'Orme, and Ange-Jacques Gabriel
- Architectural style: Primarily Renaissance and Classical
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Château de Fontainebleau was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981
- Number of visitors per year: Approximately 500,000 visitors annually
- Function: Once served as the residence of French monarchs and later used for ceremonial and official purposes
Why is the Grand Apartments in Chateau de Fontainebleau a Must-See?
- A Step into Royalty: Immerse yourself in the opulent world of French monarchs and discover secrets of Royal life.
- A Tapestry of History: Exploring the Royal Apartments allows you to retrace the steps of French Monarchs dating back to the 16th century, including Francois I, and Napoleon Bonaparte.
- Architectural Splendor: The Royal Apartments is one of the best places in the chateau to see how more than 3 architectural styles intersect: Renaissance, Classical, and Mannerist.
- The Galleries of Grandeur: With great architecture, comes great art. Discover masterpieces by Corot, Oudry, and more.
- Craftsmanship of Elegance: Discover ornate furniture that has transcended time to showcase the finest craftsmanship.
- A Room with a View: Enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding gardens from theSalle des Colonnes.
Plan Your Visit to the Grand Apartments at Chateau de Fontainebleau
What are the Grand Apartments Opening Hours?
Where are the Grand Apartments located?
Timings: April to September: 9:30 AM to 6 PM; October to March: 9:30 AM to 5 PM.
Closed: Tuesdays, January 1, May 1, and December 25
Best time to visit:
To fully appreciate the grandeur and beauty of the Grand Apartments, it's recommended to plan your visit during weekdays when there are typically fewer visitors. Additionally, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn. The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are usually thinner compared to the peak summer season.
Best Time to Visit Château de Fontainebleau
Address: 77300 Fontainebleau, France
The Grand Apartments are nestled within the first floor of the Château de Fontainebleau, located in the town of Fontainebleau, France. The château itself is situated in the heart of the town, surrounded by picturesque gardens and in close proximity to the Fontainebleau Forest.
Get Directions to Château de FontainebleauInside the Grand Apartments at Chateau de Fontainebleau
Delve into the private world of kings & queens at the Royal Apartments. Divided into 2 sections, the King's Apartments on the north side and the Queen's Apartments on the south side of the first floor, this arrangement vividly showcases the hierarchical structure of the French monarchy. Read on to know more about what to expect inside this section of the chateau.
The King's Apartments
The King's Bedchamber
This chamber has undergone transformations since the Ancien Régime. In 1808, Napoleon I converted it into a Throne room, serving its purpose until the Second Empire. While the original furnishings are gone, remnants remain, including the ornate wood paneling, marble fireplace adorned with exquisite gilt bronze decorations, and gilded medallions displaying the motto of Louis XIII. Once the epicenter of court rituals, this historic room witnessed public ceremonies of the monarch's rising and retiring.
The Louis XIII Salon
Once known as the "grand cabinet du Roi," this salon resembles a precious casket adorned with magnificent paintings. Henri IV commissioned the decorative wood paneling, concealing small doors within. Renowned painter Ambroise Dubois created fifteen recessed canvas panels framed in stucco, depicting the captivating tale of Theagenes and Chariclea. The meticulously adorned room holds historical significance, as it witnessed the birth of the future Louis XIII.
The Entrance to the King's Apartment
Enter the King's Apartments through the staircase located in the Oval Courtyard. This grand staircase, designed by Gabriel in the 18th century, replaced a narrower 16th-century staircase. Ascend to the Bel Étage on the first floor, characterized by higher windows, ample light, and luxurious ornamentation. The staircase, adorned with the sovereign's initials, was constructed in the former chamber of the Duchess of Étampes.
The Guard Room
Once dedicated to the king's guards, this served as a vigilant gateway to the monarch's apartment. Today, the room retains its French ceiling and displays an oil-painted frieze depicting military trophies and armor. Marvel at the marble fireplace with a bust of Henri IV and the marquetry flooring, reminiscent of the ceiling design. This space later functioned as a grand state dining room during Napoleon III's era.
Saint Louis Rooms
These two rooms bear the name of the revered monarch of the Middle Ages, Louis IX, known as Saint Louis. Historically, the second room housed the King's bed-chamber, nestled within the thick walls of the ancient keep. In the 17th century, when the bed-chamber was relocated, this space became an antechamber, providing a spacious waiting area furnished with benches for visitors awaiting an audience with the king.
The Queen's Apartments
The Empress' Bedchamber
As the former bedroom of the queens of France, this room witnessed the presence of notable queens such as Marie de Medici and Marie Antoinette. The grand bed, dating back to Marie Antoinette's time, features cupid motifs, floral decorations, and the queen's initials. Although Marie-Antoinette never slept in this bed, it was later used by Empress Josephine.
The Tapestry Room
Formerly the Queen's guard room, this area evolved into a more relaxed antechamber during the 19th century. Extensively renovated in 1835 under Louis Philippe I, it features a stunning wooden coffered ceiling. Adorned with cherished antique furniture, including opulent 17th-century Boulle inlay pieces and magnificent tapestries depicting the myth of Psyche, this room showcases the King's love for history and beautiful artworks.
The Francis I Salon
During the 16th century, this room served as Queen Eleanor of Austria's bedroom, wife of Francis I. Later, it became the "Queen's 2nd antechamber" where courtiers awaited access to the Queen's daily rituals. Primaticcio adorned the room with stucco and frescoes, now preserved only in the fireplace featuring a medallion of Venus and Adonis. Napoleon III added the final touch with exquisite Gobelins tapestries depicting the hunts of Queen Eleanor's grandfather, Emperor Maximilian.
The Queen's Silver Boudoir
Marie Antoinette sought solace from courtly obligations in this intimate boudoir. The walls are adorned with ornate paneling in silver or gold, depicting pairs of Muse figurines. Above gilded doors, plaster representations of the Muses add to the feminine atmosphere. A bathtub, added in the 19th century by Empress Eugenie, provided a private retreat within this historically significant space.
Book Your Tickets to Château de Fontainebleau
History of the Grand Apartments
With the expansions of the château, the Grand Apartments became opulent living spaces adorned with exquisite artwork and intricate details. Throughout the years, these rooms witnessed the presence of notable figures such as King Louis XIV and Napoleon Bonaparte, who left their mark on the chateau's interiors. The Grand Apartments served as venues for political gatherings, lavish ceremonies, and artistic endeavors, reflecting the grandeur of the French monarchy.
Beyond the well-known areas, the Queen's Silver Boudoir, a lesser-known gem, features silver leaf decorations and delicate adornments, offering a glimpse of hidden beauty. Exploring these off-the-beaten-path spaces provides a unique perspective on the lives of French royalty. Step into the King's Apartments and the Queen's Apartments to experience the regal ambiance of the King's Bedchamber and the captivating beauty of the Louis XIII Salon.
Read More About the History of Palace of FontainebleauFrequently Asked Questions About the Grand Apartments
Q. What are the Grand Apartments at the Chateau de Fontainebleau?
A. The Grand Apartments at Château de Fontainebleau served as the residence of French monarchs and were later used for ceremonial and official purposes. These apartments offer a glimpse into the lives of France's illustrious rulers and are adorned with tapestries, gilded ceilings, frescoes, and exquisite furniture.
Q. Why is the Grand Apartments at the Chateau de Fontainebleau famous?
A. The Grand Apartments at Château de Fontainebleau are famous for their historical significance, architectural splendor, and association with prominent figures such as François I and Napoleon Bonaparte.
Q. Where are the Grand Apartments at the Chateau de Fontainebleau?
A. The Grand Apartments are located within the Château de Fontainebleau, which is situated in the town of Fontainebleau, France.
Q. Why should I visit the Grand Apartments at the Chateau de Fontainebleau?
A. Visiting the Grand Apartments at Château de Fontainebleau offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of French monarchs and experience the grandeur of their living spaces. You can explore rooms that have hosted influential figures throughout history and witness the intersection of architectural styles spanning centuries.
Q. How do I book tickets to visit the Grand Apartments at the Chateau de Fontainebleau?
A. It's recommended to book your tickets online allowing you to secure your tickets in advance and access the best of deals and discounts.
Q. Who built the Grand Apartments at the Chateau de Fontainebleau?
A. The Grand Apartments at Château de Fontainebleau were built by multiple architects over the course of history. Notable architects involved in the construction and renovation of the apartments include Gilles Le Breton, Philibert de l'Orme, and Ange-Jacques Gabriel.
Q. When did the Grand Apartments at the Chateau de Fontainebleau open?
A. The Grand Apartments at Château de Fontainebleau have a varied history, and different portions of the apartments date back to the 16th century. The château itself was originally a hunting lodge and was transformed into a magnificent palace during the reign of Francis I in the 16th century.
Q. What’s inside the Grand Apartments at the Chateau de Fontainebleau?
A. The Grand Apartments at Château de Fontainebleau house lavishly decorated rooms including the Salle de Bal, Salle du Trône, Galerie François I, King's Bedroom, Queen's Bedroom, and Salon de Famille, among others.
Q. What are the Grand Apartments at the Chateau de Fontainebleau opening hours?
A. The Grand Apartments are open from 9:30 AM to 6 PM from April to September, and from 9:30 AM to 5 PM from October to March. However, please note that they are closed on Tuesdays, January 1, May 1, and December 25.