During the Imperial Jubilee , which takes place every September, history lovers can relive the pomp of the First Empire during a great procession of musicians and soldiers from the Emperor's Great Army.
Costumed actors even allow you to salute Napoleon "in person,"escorted by his chief of staff, and Josephine , surrounded by her ladies-in-waiting. Bought by Josephine in , this beautiful palace was the setting of Napoleon and his beloved's private life for many years.
After crossing the tent-shaped entrance hall, you will find yourself immersed in the daily life of the palace's former owners, including Josephine's bedroom , where she died in , and the music room , where you can still see the Empress's harp. Don't forget to peek into the Marengo Room , where weapons that belonged to Napoleon are displayed. Your visit continues in the palace grounds , which remain steeped in the spirit of the Empress.
It was here that Josephine cultivated a number of exotic plants and vegetables, as well as one of the greatest rose gardens in the world. Expertly restored, the garden of antique rose varieties has regained a splendour worthy of its former owner, who was one of France's first great women botanists. But save room for a stop after at the renowned master chocolatier Gilles Cresno 's boutique, in Rueil-Malmaison.
After lunch, it will be time to head for the Church of Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul , a listed historic monument. Here you can find Josephine 's superb tomb in Carrera marble , mounted with a statue of the Empress on her knees, a homage to the famous painting by David, "The Coronation of Napoleon. Napoleon and Josephine weren't the only famous denizens of Rueil-Malmaison.
