The Great Stables were built between 1719 and 1735 to accommodate 240 horses and 500 hounds.
The dome of the Great Stables reaches a height of 28 meters.
The museum collection includes a rare collection of 18th-century harnesses and saddlery.
The stables were designed so that the Prince of Condé could hear the horses from his living quarters.
The museum explores the anatomical history of the horse through detailed artistic and scientific displays.
Legend holds that the Duke of Bourbon believed he would be reincarnated as a horse and commissioned the stables to ensure he lived in luxury in his next life.
The site hosts daily equestrian demonstrations in the adjacent covered riding arena.
The museum serves as an educational center for the history of horse domestication.
The Horse Museum, or Musée du Cheval, is housed within the 18th-century Grandes Écuries, a sprawling stable complex commissioned by the Duke of Bourbon. It features 15 galleries detailing the historical relationship between humans and horses across diverse civilizations. The museum holds a collection of over 200 objects, including paintings, sculptures, and equine equipment. It is situated on the estate of the Château de Chantilly. The Great Stables were designed by architect Jean Aubert and remain one of the largest stable complexes in Europe. Visitors can view living horses in the central courtyard and side stalls. The collection emphasizes the technical and scientific aspects of horsemanship. It connects to the broader heritage of the Chantilly estate's long association with equestrian sports and racing.
The central courtyard entrance facing the large arched doorway of the Grandes Écuries.
Combine your visit with an equestrian demonstration for a complete experience.
Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the expansive cobblestone stable grounds.
Check the daily equestrian show schedule before arrival to ensure you do not miss the performance.
Do not mistake the Horse Museum for the general art galleries of the main Château, as they are separate ticketed experiences.
Closed on Tuesdays; open daily during public holidays and high season.
Quiet behavior is expected near the live horses in the stables; do not feed the animals.
