Retracing Marie Antoinette’s Bridal Journey – Day 24 Travel Break: Compiègne, France

We’re traveling to Compiègne and it’s Thursday, May 14. This year, May 14 is Ascension Day, (Jeudi de l’Ascension) a Christian public holiday in France occurring 40 days after Easter. So, let’s hope the sites of the city we want to see are open and not terribly crowded.

A Big Day for the Dauphine

Today is the day our 14-year old, barely into puberty, meets her less than enthusiastic 15-year old bridegroom, Louis XVI. Her lodging for the evening was at the Château de Compiègne where a suite of rooms was prepared for her. She is now addressed as Madame la Dauphine.

On this religious holiday, I have company during my tour of this country château

Meet the Royal Family

And this chateau has room for the entire family who came out en masse. In addition to Louis XV and the Dauphin Louis XVI, the king’s three unmarried daughters still living at home – that is Versailles. Extended members of the royal family are also part of the King’s and the Dauphin’s entourage. Nothing like a little pressure.

Abbreviated History of the Château

Compiègne began as a hunting lodge for the king. The forests around Compiègne were favored by the King for his favorite sport. The château was expanded over time. The Queen’s Apartment was added during Marie Antoinette’s reign, giving her a wonderful view of the garden.

Following the revolution, the château was refurbished to Napoleon’s liking with many style changes. In 1873, around 100 years following Marie Antoinette’s first visit, the château became a national museum. It also served as the location for the signing of the Armistice following World War I.

My few photos of the interior of the château do not do it justice. The link to the official site for the château provides some beautiful photos of the best of the interior.

Here are a few of mine:

Before we leave, let’s look at the ‘back yard’ of the chateau with its gardens that extend farther than the eye can see.

Relaxing walk through gardens at Compiègne

Although the formal gardens were added, the forest that was the original draw for the royals continues to exist and thrive. I’m told there are many hiking, bike and horse trails that cut through it. I didn’t see the trails in the forest firsthand, but I did have a nice hike down the grand allêe in the garden.

On an overcast morning in Compiègne, a tour boat is coming into dock at the Quai Flagrant Agricola and traffic is building, I’m once again off to the train station.