Henri of Orleans was the son of King Louis Phillip and in 1830 known to be the greatest collector of his time. He was also a horseman. Above is the racetrack on the grounds.

There is also a Museum on the grounds with elaborate stables.

This is included in the billet (ticket) to the Chateau.

Don’t miss it!

While there a horse 🐎 show was in progress as Chantilly is a horse community. Believe its origins began in lace, and almost overlooked this jewel as my driver from the airport said it was a dump.

However, sometimes it’s best you make your own decision, and in this case glad I did.

The Museum

More Horse Memorabilia

Carousel Horses

Saddle Collection

An Arabian Horseman

Should you visit the Chateau once off the train take the free bus at the Metro station as it is a long 25 minute walk, and you’ll want to save your energy for the gardens at the Château.

Tomorrow…

And…

Will end with this Christmas shot of decorations in an Inn in old Chantilly.

You never know what you’ll find when you travel.

This is my third trip to the Moulin Rouge and it always amazes me! For $130., Expedia rates, (buy early, I bought in August), you receive one hour and 45 minutes of nonstop entertainment and a free bottle of champagne.

This is one for everyone’s Bucket List..🪣

Tonight I arrived late, so was given seating next to the backstage exit of the dancers. While I squawked at first, it was interesting to see the backstage costume area, and the dancers close up.

They are not only beautiful, but have gorgeous bodies and watching those legs move makes me envy. Always wanted to take lessons but never had the opportunity.

So all that said arrive early and enjoy!

And as always check out Expedia prices.

The Audience

Welcome 2025!

What a fascinating tour. If you are ever in Paris, put this on your list, and order tickets ahead of time. I was grateful to snag one through Expedia last minute, but there are lines for this, and only 200 people are let in every 15 minutes.

And for those that have disabilities know there are 131 steps going down into the Catacombs, and 95 or so returning.

It is always 60 degrees in the Catacombs.

After the stairs is a long walk through tunnels.

Now that you know how to traverse the site here is some history.

In 1774 the buildings of Paris began to collapse into the ground. This came due to centuries of quarrying granite under the homes. A brilliant engineer arrived at a solution, and this was implemented immediately thus the catacombs began and Paris rescued.

The idea for depositing bodies and bones in the catacombs began when a cemetery literally fell into the area as it was being built.

It was the idea of a French King to tidy up the area, and increase its size. Visitors are instructed not to touch the bones as the bones are fragile and it is deemed a place of great reverence.