- Description of the Chateau de la Muette
- History of the Chateau de la Muette
- Significant events of the Chateau de la Muette
- Visit the Chateau de la Muette
- Transfer from the Château de la Muette to the Paris airports
Description of the Chateau de la Muette
The Château de la Muette, a notable tourist site, is located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, near the Bois de Boulogne. It stands on a historic site where three castles existed chronologically since the Renaissance. The Château de la Muette features a wide main building flanked by two large wings and various annexes. It houses a large living room, now converted into a meeting room for the council of permanent representatives of the OEEC. Additionally, the castle includes the “Roger Ockrent room” and the “George Marshall room.”
History of the Chateau de la Muette
The origin of the name “Muette” for the castle is subject to debate, with several possible meanings, including references to deer hunting or hunting dog kennels. The current Château de la Muette was constructed around the turn of the century by the Rothschild family, replacing two older castles associated with Queen Margot and Louis XV. During the German occupation, the Chateau de la Muette was occupied by the military. Later, in 1961, it became the headquarters of the OEEC (Organization for European Economic Cooperation). Historically, in the Middle Ages, it was a royal residence until Charles IX decided to rebuild it into a magnificent castle for his daughter, known as Queen Margot. Philippe d’Orleans later expanded it, and significant renovations were carried out during the reign of Louis XV between 1741 and 1749 by architects Jacques V. Gabriel and Ange Gabriel.
Significant Events of the Chateau de la Muette
In 1750, the crown’s cabinet of curiosities was established in the gardens of La Muette. Louis XV, in 1743, commissioned the creation of a grand path in the Bois de Boulogne to view the Chateau de Bellevue from Chateau de la Muette. During the Revolution, this cabinet was destroyed, and its contents were moved to the Paris Observatory. The castle itself was later dismantled and sold in parts. In 1820, the property was acquired by Sebastian Erard, who enhanced the castle by adding two additional floors and constructing a remarkable gallery for his extensive collection of paintings. Between 1921 and 1922, Henri de Rothschild completely rebuilt the palace, opting for an 18th-century architectural style. Notably, Louis XVI hosted a dinner for Emperor Joseph II, Marie Antoinette’s brother, at the Chateau de la Muette. The castle was also the departure point for Pilâtre de Rozier and the Marquis d’Arlandes’ historic balloon flight. Post-Revolution, it became state property. Between the World Wars, the Chateau de la Muette hosted captivating performances and exhibitions organized by the Rothschilds, utilizing various parts of the building, including what is now the OEEC Council room.
Visit the Chateau de la Muette
Visitors to the Chateau de la Muette can explore the history and legacy of France and its kings through various exhibitions housed within the building. A notable feature is the crest above the door of the castle, representing the five arrows symbolizing the five branches of the Rothschild family.
To explore the Château de la Muette, our transfer service offers a choice of three types of vehicles for your convenience, including a collective shuttle, a private car, and a VIP luxury car, all accompanied by a professional driver.
Transfer from the Château de la Muette to the Paris Airports
The Château de la Muette is conveniently located 22.1 km from Orly Airport, 87.7 miles from Beauvais Tille Airport, and 30.5 km from Charles de Gaulle Airport.