STABLES - HORSE MUSEUM

The Grandes Écuries are located in the heart of the Chantilly estate, just a stone's throw from the château. This ^18th-century architectural masterpiece was built by architect Jean Aubert for Louis-Henri de Bourbon, the seventh Prince de Condé. A veritable palace for horses, the Grandes Écuries were dedicated to hunting with hounds: they housed up to 240 horses and 500 dogs. During the French Revolution, they were converted into barracks. The d'Orléans family gave the Grandes Écuries their full importance, developing the importance of horses in Chantilly, notably with the creation of the racecourse in 1834. When you arrive, admire the magnificent stone sculptures adorning the pediments of the Grandes Écuries. Stop for a moment to observe the military trophies, Diana, the goddess of the hunt, and the horses. Once through the gates, meet Boléro, Cordobes, Gacelo, Séraphin, Pirate and Pépito... The Compagnie équestre des Grandes Écuries is made up of 27 horses, 10 ponies, 3 donkeys and 1 mule. You can admire them, stroke them and get to know them, thanks to the identity card in front of each stall. Enter the Musée du Cheval, created in 1982 by Yves Bienaimé. An audiovisual presentation introduces you to the horse through the ages, as seen by man. You'll then stroll through the museum to discover how horses were domesticated, and how they were used for work, in towns and in war. Visitors are also introduced to the world of hunting with hounds, a key theme at Chantilly. The final part of the tour is devoted to the horse as a tool for leisure and sport. Carousel horses are on display, appealing to young and old alike. This museum is open to both novices and connoisseurs of this animal. You're sure to have a great time! What's more, the horse is presented in action, in the 28-meter-high dome. The Compagnie Equestre offers entertainment and shows on an almost daily basis, all included in the price of the ticket. For almost 30 minutes, a rider explains the basics of horsemanship and shares horse training exercises. Ask when you arrive what time the training takes place, as it is not fixed. In addition to the daily training sessions, there are also equestrian events which you can find out more about on the website. Places are extremely popular, so don't hesitate to book.