But over 800 years it became home to 34 kings, queens and emperors including Louis XIV, Napoleon I, and Napoleon III.
The transformation from a hunting lodge to a regal home began in the 1500's with continuous additions and renovations over the centuries with different rulers.
Unlike Versailles, which became the primary seat of power, Fontainebleau retained its function as a “country retreat” in the countryside away from it all.
It is about 55 kilometers (34 miles) southeast of Paris.
Bonus: It is much quieter than Versailles without the hordes of tourists.
It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
