Château de l'Impératrice, Noble residence in Pregny-Chambésy, Switzerland.
Description
Château de l'Impératrice is a castle set on elevated ground near Geneva featuring classical architectural elements and multiple wings surrounded by gardens. The property overlooks the surrounding countryside and Lake Geneva from its hilltop location.
History
The castle was acquired in 1811 by former Empress Josephine de Beauharnais, who stayed there with her daughter Hortense during the summer of 1812. This connection to the Bonaparte family shaped its early history and prestige.
Culture
The castle now houses the permanent Italian mission to the United Nations, reflecting its ongoing role in international diplomacy. This transformation from a private residence to an official diplomatic post shows how the place has adapted to new purposes over time.
Practical
The castle is located at an accessible spot near Geneva and its elevated position makes it easy to orient yourself in the surrounding area. Keep in mind that the property now functions as a diplomatic mission, so public access may be limited or restricted.
Did you know?
The dancer Lola Montez rented the castle in 1848 intending to host her companion, former King Louis I of Bavaria. This episode reveals surprising connections between the property and prominent European figures of the 1800s.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Pregny-Chambésy).
Palace of Nations
504 m
Château Rothschild and its outbuildings
589 m
The Celestial Sphere
487 m
ICRC
640 m
Musée Ariana
676 m
Conservatory and Botanical Garden of the City of Geneva
484 m
Penthes château
384 m
Archives of the International Committee of the Red Cross
599 m
Château du Reposoir
330 m
Parc de l'Ariana
645 m
Parc de l'Impératrice
262 m
Institut et Musée des Suisses dans le monde
310 m
Military Museum of Geneva
307 m
Villa Le Chêne
348 m
Villa La Console
601 m
International Labour Office
760 m
Albert Thomas monument in Geneva
746 m
International Labour Organization (building)
756 m
Statue of Mohandas K. Gandhi in Geneva
769 m
World Meteorological Organization Headquarters
787 m
International Committee of the Red Cross building in Geneva
599 m
Statue of Augustin Pyramus de Candolle
363 m
La Coulée
487 m
The Conquest of Space
427 m
Les Pétrifiés
649 m
Library of the United Nations Office at Geneva
488 m
Bibliothèques du Bureau international du Travail (BIT)
761 m
Serres de Pregny
750 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes