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Château de Malmaison: Napoleon and Josephine's Imperial Residence

Step back in time at Château de Malmaison, the beloved home of Napoleon and Josephine, and a center of French Imperial history.

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The Château de Malmaison, located in Rueil-Malmaison, just west of Paris, was once the private residence of Empress Joséphine de Beauharnais and Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. From 1800 to 1802, it served as the headquarters of the French government, offering a glimpse into the opulent life of the imperial couple. Today, it stands as a national museum, showcasing a rich collection of Napoleonic artifacts and art within its beautifully preserved rooms and gardens.

A brief summary to Château de Malmaison

  • Monday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Consider visiting on the first Sunday of the month for free admission.
  • The upper floors are only accessible by stairs. Visitors with limited mobility can request a free iPad for a virtual tour.
  • Allow at least an hour for a self-guided tour of the Château and grounds.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From La Défense (Metro Line 1, RER A, SNCF, Bus), take bus 258 to the 'Le Château' stop. The bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes. After arriving at the bus stop, cross the RN13, turn back towards the crossroads, and walk 300 meters to the Château on the right. A single bus ticket costs around €2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Rueil-Malmaison. A taxi ride from the Rueil-Malmaison RER A station to Château de Malmaison typically costs between €10-€15, depending on traffic.

  • Walking

    From the Rueil-Malmaison RER A station, it is approximately a 30-minute walk to the Château de Malmaison. Follow the Avenue de Fouilleuse, then turn right onto Avenue du Château de Malmaison. Continue straight; the Château will be on your left.

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Discover more about Château de Malmaison

The Château de Malmaison offers a captivating journey into the lives of Napoleon and Josephine Bonaparte. Originally a 17th-century house, Josephine acquired the property in 1799 and transformed it into an elegant estate, with the help of architects Percier and Fontaine. From 1800 to 1802, Malmaison served as the French government's headquarters, rivaling the Tuileries Palace in Paris. Visitors can explore Josephine's bedroom, where she passed away in 1814, and the music room, which still houses her harp. The Marengo room displays Napoleon's weapons, while other rooms showcase souvenirs from his exile on St Helena. The Château also features a library created in 1800 with mahogany furniture. The park surrounding the Château was known for Josephine's rose garden, boasting around 150 varieties of roses. The name “Malmaison” may originate from the Middle Ages, referring to a “bad house” or refuge during Norman invasions. The Château has changed hands several times throughout history. Maria Christina sold the property to Napoleon III in 1861. A museum opened at the site in 1905. Today, the Château de Malmaison provides a window into French history, art, and the personal lives of one of the most influential couples in history.

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