Château de Pierrefonds, France

© Hemis/Alam

Château de Pierrefonds

The Château de Pierrefonds is situated in the scenic city of Pierrefonds. It was built in the late fourteenth century by Duke Louis d'Orléans. The original château was in ruins for over two centuries, but today's castle was built in the 19th century when Emperor Napoleon III decided to reconstruct it and use it as his imperial residence. The château features eight towers decorated with sculptures of eight dignified knights and kings, all heroes of the ancient and Middle Ages. The courtyard is composed of various architectural styles, mostly medieval and Renaissance. The château has frequently been used as a location for filming and television series such as Wizards of Waverly Palace. The castle is without a doubt one of the most beautiful castles in the vicinity of Paris.