On 16 June 1815, Napoleon won his final victory during the Battle of Saint-Amand/Ligny. One of the bloodiest engagements, this battle ended with Prussian troops retreating. Fresh from his victory, Napoleon retired that evening to the Peace Castle in Fleurus, while his troops camped in the surrounding area. During the night following this ultimate triumph, Napoleon shut himself off from the outside world for as long as he could. Withdrawn and almost inactive for almost eleven hours, Napoleon let the Prussians escape, whereupon his fate was sealed.

Popular recollections of these events may have gradually faded away but the memory of this momentous historical experience lingers on in Fleurus.

A visit to Napoleon's room, reconstituted and completed with a carefully orchestrated layout, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere that once existed in this place. A few striking details are found throughout the room, much to the delight of those with a fondness for the "small stories behind the big one".

The Napoleon room may be visited all year round. Reservation is required. The visit is rounded off by the screening of two educational films.

• Free

• French