Chantilly's Forest

As of the 14th century the owners of Chantilly's Forest expressed their will to increase their domain so as to be able to practice their common passion: hunting. The star shaped cross roads and straight and large alleys are a testimony of the time.

Just to mention some of the most notable owners: the Connetable Anne de Montmorency, the Grand Conde, the Duc de Bourbon and the Duc d'Aumale, Louis-Philippe’s 5th son. In 1884 the latter bequeathed to the Institut de France the "Domaine de Chantilly" with its Forest, lawns, fountains and buildings.

The Forest covers 6300 hectares. It is managed by the Office National des Forêts.
It shelters an important fauna of stags, does, wild boars and other guests which benefit of a peaceful haven to live in.

One of the most remarkable sites of Chantilly's Forest is that of the "Etangs de Commelle", built by the monks from Châalis Abbey between 1204 and 1208. The small Castle one can see and known now days as the "White Queen's Castle" probably dates back to the 12th century. In 1825 The Duc de Bourbon gave it its present appearance.