We drove to Albert via Compiegne because I have always wanted to see Pierrefonds Castle and had it as my screen saver at work for about twelve months (until the IT guys changed something and I didn’t know how to restore it!).  The original citadel was built in 1393 but it was attacked and dismantled in 1616.  The great ruin was bought by Napoleon 1 in 1810 and in 1857 Napoleon 111 had it restored in the style of a fortification of the Middle Ages.

Pierrefonds Castle

Model of the castle giving vital statistics

My favourite dress in an exhibition of opera & ballet costumes at the castle