Event – Major Historical Reenactment Weekend

In conjunction with the exhibition dedicated to Caroline Murat, Napoleon’s sister and Queen of Naples, on display at the Jeu de Paume, the Château de Chantilly is partnering with the Joachim Murat Civil and Military Foundation to present a major weekend of historical reenactments, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the heart of the First Empire.

Meet Caroline and Joachim Murat, visiting Chantilly, along with their entourage and troops !

Designed as a vivid, immersive experience accessible to all, this event invites the public to wander freely through the estate’s various areas, embarking on a true journey through time to discover a military encampment, scenes of civilian life, and interactive activities, all coming together to create a rich and varied experience. Bringing together nearly 150 reenactors—soldiers, artillerymen, dancers, and members of the nobility and civilian life—this event brings to life with precision and passion daily life in the early 19th century.

Featuring troop and cannon maneuvers, guided demonstrations of princely and military life, and reenactments of “small trades,” this exceptional weekend highlights the skills, practices, and customs of the Napoleonic era.

Punctuated by opportunities for interaction, introductory sessions, and demonstrations of historical dances, this immersive experience offers an educational journey that brings visitors up close to history. Visitors thus discover a recreated past, blending historical accuracy with a festive spirit.

A Journey into the heart of the First Empire

The military encampment and the village of traditional crafts will be open to the public continuously from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Visitors will be able to experience camp life, traditional crafts, and various activities. Balls and demonstrations of period dances will add to the festivities.

Saturday, September 19

10:00 a.m. – 10:40 a.m. : Military encampment and artisan village open to the public – English Garden.
10:40 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. : Troops assemble and march to the main courtyard.
11:00 a.m. – 11:20 a.m. : Official arrival of Their Majesties the King and Queen of Naples and ceremonial welcome. Troop review: ceremonial presentation and official inspection—Main Courtyard of the castle.
11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. : Simultaneous activities:

• Historical skit by Murat’s General Staff and interaction with the public — Gallery of Battles.
• Presentation of the Soldier’s School and the platoon — English Garden.

12:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. : Scenes of life at the bivouac / small trades : presentation of daily life and meal preparation.
12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. : Lunch break and continuation of camp life, open to the public.
2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. : Historical ball: presentation of the Court, opening of the ball by Their Majesties the King and Queen of Naples, followed by period dances — Gallery of Paintings.
3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. : Military demonstrations (drill ground) : firing exercises, bayonet charges, line formations – English Garden.

At the same time—Historical skit performed by Murat’s staff and Q&A with the audience—Galerie des Batailles.
3:30 p.m.–4:15 p.m. : Lecture Fashion Under the Empire, by Cristina Barreto-Lancaster, specialist in Empire-era fashion, author, and collector—King’s Salon.
3:45 p.m.–4:45 p.m. : Large-scale military maneuvers—Jardin Anglais.
4:00–4:30 p.m. : Historical skit by Murat’s staff and Q&A with the audience — Galerie des Batailles.
5:15–5:45 p.m. : Troop review and awards ceremony: presentation of medals, stripes, and seniority chevrons — Parterre de la Volière.

Sunday, September 20

10:00 a.m. – 10:40 a.m. : Military bivouac and traditional crafts village open to the public — English Garden.
10:40 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. : Troops take their positions and march to the main courtyard.
11:00 a.m. – 11:20 a.m. : Official arrival of Their Majesties the King and Queen of Naples and ceremonial welcome. Troop review: ceremonial presentation and official inspection — Cour d’honneur of the castle.
11:20 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. : Artillery salute — Jardin Anglais.
11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. : Simultaneous activities:

Historical skit by Murat’s General Staff and interaction with the public — Gallery of Battles.
Presentation of the soldier’s school and the platoon — English Garden.

12:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. : Scenes from life at the bivouac / small trades: presentation of daily life and meal preparation — English Garden.
12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. : Lunch break and continuation of camp life, open to the public.
2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. : Historical ball: presentation of the Court, opening of the ball by Their Majesties the King and Queen of Naples, followed by period dances — Painting Gallery.
3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. : Military demonstrations (drill area): firing exercises, bayonet charges, line formations.

At the same time—Historical skit by Murat’s staff and Q&A with the public—Gallery of Battles.
3:30–4:15 p.m. : Lecture Fashion Under the Empire, by Cristina Barreto-Lancaster, specialist in Empire-era fashion, author, and collector—King’s Salon.
3:45 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. : Large-scale military maneuvers — English Garden.
4:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. : Historical reenactment by Murat’s staff and discussion with the public — Galerie des Batailles.
4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. : Troop review and salute to the public — Parterre de la Volière.

Important Informations
The times and schedule of events are provided for informational purposes only and are subject to change depending on organizational constraints.
In the event of inclement weather or exceptional circumstances, the Château de Chantilly reserves the right to modify, postpone, or cancel all or part of the scheduled events, without this entitling attendees to a refund.
Attendees are not permitted to wear costumes to this event.