Château de Fontainebleau

Château de Fontainebleau, located in the town of Fontainebleau, is one of the largest and most beautiful of the French royal palaces. Built in the 12th century to serve as a hunting lodge, it was expanded and lavishly decorated during the Renaissance and grew to become a major European court. It has been a target of renovation and remodeling since the late 16th century, each generation making changes to the palace that help define its elegance. Today, the Château de Fontainebleau is a major tourist attraction, offering a treasure trove of artistic and historic attractions to explore and admire. With its large gardens and magnificent architecture, the Château de Fontainebleau offers a spectacular view of the French countryside. The palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with many details and artworks of particular interest to photographers, including grand marble staircases, tapestries and tiled walls, ornate furniture, and fountains in the gardens. There are also several Renaissance-era chapels on the grounds. Visitors can explore the galleries and reception rooms, tour the Musée de Fontainebleau, or take a horse-drawn carriage tour around the grounds.