Compiègne, imperial and historic city
©Sam Bellet /
The Empress's bedchamber
A former imperial city, Compiègne has played a major role in French history.
Founded in the 9th century, Compiègne would serve as both a holiday residence and a seat of power for all French sovereigns. It was here that Joan of Arc, who had come to deliver the city faithful to Charles VII from the besieging English and Burgundians, was captured on 23 May 1430.
The city is home to one of France's most beautiful neoclassical châteaux. Built during the 18th century by the architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel, by order of King Louis XV, the Château de Compiègne played a central role in the history of the Second Empire. The frequent stays by Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie left their indelible mark on the residence. It is therefore not surprising that Compiègne is also home to the Second Empire Museum, which houses both works of art and historical items from this brilliant period. A tour of the château also allows visitors to discover its incredible collection of antique cars. The garden surrounding the Château de Compiègne rounds off the visit.
On 11 November 1918, the Armistice of the First World War was signed in the Compiègne Forest, in the railway carriage of Marshal Foch. The Mémorial de la Clairière ("Clearing Memorial"), with its famous carriage, is a museum dedicated to both World Wars.
Compiègne has also been the scene of tragic events, as evidenced by the three camps of the Royallieu Internment and Deportation Memorial.
Compiègne Tourist Office
Place de l'Hôtel de Ville PB30009
60200 Compiègne
Tel: +33 (0)3 44 40 01 00
compiegne.tourisme.infos@wanadoo.fr
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- Beauvais<Oise<Picardy: a land of cathedrals
- Château de Troissereux and its park, only 15 mins from the airport
- The Barge- and Boatmen Museum, 1 hour from the Beauvais Airport
- The Chaalis Abbey, one hour from the Beauvais Airport and Paris
- Memorial tourism
- Royal Senlis: 2,000 years of history and architecture
- Chantilly, princes' city and equine capital
- Pierrefonds and its feudal castle
