Picture this. You stand before Villa Windsor a grand Neoclassical villa in the Bois de Boulogne. This isn’t just any Parisian residence. It’s steeped in history romance and even a touch of scandal.
For decades Villa Windsor was the cherished home of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. Edward VIII’s abdication a seismic event in British history cast a long shadow. He found solace and love here with Wallis Simpson. They lived here from 1953 until the Duke’s death in 1972. The Duchess remained until 1986.
Before their arrival Villa Windsor known then as Chateau Le Bois had a different story. Built between 1928 and 1929 by Roger Bouvard it was initially owned by Henri Lillaz. After the Liberation of Paris General Charles de Gaulle and his family even resided here.
Maison Jansen a renowned Parisian decorating firm transformed the villa under the Duchess’s discerning eye. The fourteen rooms reflect a blend of elegance and personal taste. It wasn’t only their main Parisian residence though. The Windsors also owned a country house Moulin de la Tuilerie for weekends and summer holidays.
Following the Duchess’s death the City of Paris took back ownership. Mohamed Al-Fayed leased the villa extensively renovating it. He invested thirty million francs. He was rewarded with an Officer’s rank in the Legion d’honneur. His son Dodi famously visited here with Princess Diana just before their tragic deaths.
The contents of the villa were auctioned in 1998 after Al-Fayed purchased them from the Pasteur Institute. The sale included items of great personal and historical significance. This included Edward VIII’s abdication desk a vast photo collection and a doll from Queen Mary.
Today Villa Windsor is under the care of the Mansart Foundation. They plan to restore this magnificent piece of history. They aim to open it to the public in 2025. It will offer a captivating glimpse into the lives of one of history’s most fascinating couples.
Step back in time. Imagine the echoes of conversations laughter and perhaps even whispered secrets within these walls. This is Villa Windsor. A story waiting to be rediscovered.