Château de Pierrefonds, the medieval castle. The construction of the Château de Pierrefonds involved two main phases: its original medieval construction from 1393 to 1407 by Louis of Orléans, and its 19th-century reconstruction led by architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc starting in 1857 for Napoleon III. The original castle was a military stronghold, but it was partially dismantled in the 17th century. The later reconstruction was a reimagining of a medieval fortress, creating the "fairy tale" appearance seen today. Original construction (14th century) Commissioned by: Louis of Orléans, brother of King Charles VI. Purpose: To serve as a military stronghold and to control trade routes between Flanders and Burgundy. Construction dates: Approximately 1393 to 1407. Architectural style: A prime example of late medieval military architecture, featuring impenetrable defenses like nearly 30-meter-high walls and double covered ways. Reconstruction (19th century) Initiated by: Napoleon III in the 1850s. Architect: Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, who also worked on Notre-Dame Cathedral and Mont Saint-Michel. Purpose: To restore the castle based on medieval models, resulting in a fantastical reimagining. Construction dates: Reconstruction work began in 1857. Completion: The work continued for over 20 years and was completed in 1884 by Viollet-le-Duc's son-in-law, Maurice Ouradou, after the architect's death. Post-reconstruction The castle was never used as an Imperial residence. It opened to the public in 1867 as a museum of medieval architecture, with some additions inspired by Viollet-le-Duc.

Boomer complaining because he cannot find any buyer willing to pay 100 trillions dollar for his vacation house he bought for 1000 francs français in the 80's.