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Origin and history

The Table du Roi is an emblematic monument located in the forest of Fontainebleau, on the territory of the municipality of the same name, in Seine-et-Marne. Since at least 1068, when the Gâtinais and its forest of Bière (former name of the forest of Fontainebleau) were integrated into the royal domain, this place served as an annual gathering point on 1 May. The users of the forest had to present themselves to the master of the waters and forests to pay tribute to the king and to pay their royalties in the form of victuals or money. These offerings, such as ham brought by Lys' abbess or cakes provided by bakers and newlyweds, were then consumed at a banquet by royal officers.

The present table, erected in 1723, replaces an older structure whose origins remain uncertain. Damaged during the French Revolution, which ended the traditional ceremonies, it was restored in 1854. At the beginning of the 20th century, the Table du Roi became a starting point for sporting competitions, including cyclocross championships. A landmark episode of his story took place on 13 October 1870, when a company of Nièvre volunteers faced württembergeian dragons, forcing them to flee to Melun.

On one of the pillars of the table, the date of 1723 is engraved in relief, attesting to its construction during the reign of Louis XV. Since 1926, the King's Table and the surrounding pillars have been listed as historical monuments as State property. This monument thus bears witness to feudal and royal practices related to the management of the State forests, as well as the historical and cultural transformations of the Fontainebleau region.

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