Compelling layers of history to uncover at the Château de Compiègne, a former royal residence, include the love story between Napoleon and Marie Louise – and a unique gift made to the Empress.

Built for Louis XV, a devotee of hunting in the surrounding forest, Compiègne’s castle was a seat of royal government. Restored by Napoleon I after the Revolution, it was the scene for extravagant week-long parties hosted by the Emperor for his guests, as well as the setting for his love story with Marie-Louise.