The kings of France played host to the greatest artists of their time in Fontainebleau. The sheer number of influences in the fields of architecture, painting, sculpture or decorative arts have made Fontainebleau an incomparable creative venue since the Renaissance. Through their works, Renaissance painters glorified the senses and beauty. The following generations of artists have in turn applied their talents to this house that has inspired many masterpieces.
The solemnity of the Throne Room, the dominance of François I Gallery, the majesty of the Imperial Theatre and the sumptuous décor of the Turkish Boudoir have been admired by all who have visited or stayed in them. In fact, the castle lives and breathes when the court takes up residence there – the Fontainebleau get away. A hunting residence since the Middle Ages, Fontainebleau was also a place of entertainment for a court in search of luxury: balls, concerts, plays, fireworks are laid on by the rulers during grand celebrations.
Daily life was divided into walks in the gardens or boating on the waters of the Grand Canal and the Etang aux Carpes (Carp Pond).
Just like the courtiers of old, visitors are invited to experience a unique environment where pleasure, rest and relaxation come together. Let yourself be taken in by Fontainebleau’s spirit and you will understand why the place has been a source of inspiration to its visitors for eight centuries.
