Built in the 1200s as a chateau (country home), Fontainebleau was embellished by King Francois I (reign: 1515-1547), who brought the best artisans from France and Italy to reconstruct the chateau in the popular Renaissance style. Even Mona Lisa graced the walls for Francois I. The beauty of the chateau was later enhanced by a succession of kings, namely Henri II and Henri IV. Louis XIV is credited with improving the gardens before starting on Versailles. The double horseshoe-shaped marble staircase of the front yard was the setting of Napoleon's farewell speech.
Many a Royal Hunt took place in the forest of Fontainebleau, which surrounds the chateau. The forest also became a popular setting for early Impressionist painters.
We are fortunate today to see Fontainebleau restored to its former beauty with gleaming woods and polished marble. Elegant furnishings and paintings complete the picture of timeless grandeur.
With the exception of Tuesday, the chateau is open daily for independent or guided tours. Garden tours are free and boating on the pond is an option. The Foret de Fontainebleau (250 sq km) surrounds the town and is a wonderland for hiking, biking and horseback riding.
HOW TO GET THERE: You can reach Fontainebleau by Railroad at the Gare de Lyon station or the Suburban Train, the Banlieu line. The stop you wish is Fontainebleau-Avon, which may or may not appear on schedule boards. Before boarding any train, travelers must time-punch ("composteur") their tickets and can be fined for the omission. Be sure you understand which ticket you should buy; ask for information at the information and ticket counters.
Most trains leave from the Grande Lignes area, but a few leave from the Souterrain, (Underground Station) located 3 levels below the Grandes Lignes. Again, ask at the information counter for verification and also ask if there is a transfer or if it is a direct line. From the train station in Fontainebleau take a bus to the chateau, which meets the trains coming in and connect with outgoing trains.
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