Cour d'Honneur (White Horse Courtyard)

The Cour d'Honneur, also called the White Horse Courtyard, is the majestic entrance court of the Château de Fontainebleau. Flanked by the Aile de la Galerie des Cerfs and the Aile Louis XV, it is dominated by the iconic Horseshoe Staircase (Escalier du Fer-à-Cheval), a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. This courtyard witnessed Napoleon's farewell to his Imperial Guard in 1814 before his exile to Elba, hence its alternative name, Cour des Adieux. Visitors can admire the symmetrical wings, the ornate staircase, and the statue of Louis XIV on horseback. The cobblestone expanse offers a dramatic first impression of the château's grandeur.

Don't miss

• Photograph the iconic Horseshoe Staircase from multiple angles.
• Stand where Napoleon said his farewells to the Imperial Guard.
• Admire the Renaissance architecture of the surrounding wings.
• View the equestrian statue of Louis XIV at the center.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Cour d'Honneur (White Horse Courtyard)

Cheapest way inHonfleur's Landmarks & Gems E-Bike Tour5★ · 22 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$69 per personSee dates →Best full dayFontainebleau and Vaux le Vicomte Chateaux Day Trip from Paris4.1★ · 348 travelers~9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$134 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleHonfleur Private Walking Tour5★ · 30 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$163 per personSee dates →