Briars, Saint Helena

The Briars Pavilion stands within a garden area, featuring traditional colonial architecture with white walls and a symmetrical design layout.

Napoleon Bonaparte resided in this pavilion during his first weeks of exile in 1815 before relocating to his permanent residence at Longwood House.

Elizabeth Balcombe, the 14-year-old daughter of merchant William Balcombe, served as the French interpreter between Napoleon and the English-speaking household.

The French-owned property opens to visitors throughout the year, allowing access to the rooms where Napoleon spent his initial exile period.

The Duke of Wellington stayed at this same pavilion in 1805, sending letters that mentioned both the accommodation and his future military opponent Napoleon.

GPS coordinates: -15.94325,-5.70927

Latest update: May 12, 2025 14:18