Joséphine de Beauharnais created a world-renowned rose garden here, cultivating over 250 species of roses from across the globe.
The château features a unique library office for Napoleon designed to resemble a campaign tent with fabric draped across the ceiling.
It was the site where Napoleon signed his act of abdication in 1815, marking his final days in France before exile to Saint Helena.
The interior contains the authentic death mask of Napoleon Bonaparte.
The park originally included a heated glass conservatory, an architectural marvel of the 19th century built to house rare plants collected from Napoleon's expeditions.
Pierre-Joseph Redouté, the famous botanical illustrator, was commissioned by Joséphine to document the rare plants growing at Malmaison.
The chateau was one of the first buildings to use the 'Empire' style of interior design, which later became the standard for official Napoleonic residences.
Château de Malmaison served as the private residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress Joséphine, acting as the seat of the French government during the Consulate period. Purchased by Joséphine in 1799, the estate became a center for French political and social life until her death there in 1814. The interior features significant original furnishings and an extensive collection of Napoleonic memorabilia, including paintings, porcelain, and weapons. The grounds house a botanical garden inspired by Joséphine’s passion for exotic flora, specifically her interest in roses and black swans. The château stands as an authentic example of the Consular style, contrasting with the more ornate Imperial styles later favored by Napoleon. The estate was declared a national museum in 1904. It preserves the intimacy of the imperial couple's domestic life, including Joséphine's bedroom and the council chamber designed to resemble a military tent. Visitors can explore the extensive parklands that once encompassed a much larger agricultural and pleasure estate.
The central path of the rose garden looking back toward the neoclassical facade of the château.
Explore the exterior gardens fully, as they contain significant botanical historical elements that are often overlooked.
Check for temporary thematic exhibitions in the auxiliary buildings before starting your tour of the main house.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the expansive park grounds, which are extensive compared to the interior space.
Do not mistake the nearby Château de Bois-Préau for the main residence, though it is sometimes managed in conjunction.
Closed on Tuesdays.
Photography without flash is permitted, but touching the furniture and historical artifacts is strictly prohibited.
