Fontainbleau

Fontainebleau is a commune in the Seine-et-Marne department in the Île-de-France region in north-central France. It is located about 55 kilometers (34 miles) southeast of Paris. The town is most famous for the Château de Fontainebleau, a vast royal palace that served as a residence for French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases a unique blend of architectural styles, reflecting centuries of royal construction and renovation.

The town itself is situated near the Forest of Fontainebleau, a large and popular woodland area known for its distinctive sandstone rock formations, which attract climbers and hikers. The forest has a rich history, having been a favored hunting ground for royalty and a source of inspiration for artists, particularly the Barbizon School of painters in the 19th century.

Fontainebleau has a significant educational presence, most notably the INSEAD business school, one of the world's leading management education institutions, which has its main campus there. The town also boasts a charming town center with a market square and various shops and restaurants, contributing to its appeal as both a historical destination and a modern community. Its proximity to Paris makes it a popular day trip destination for tourists.