Rueil-Malmaison is a prosperous commune in the Hauts-de-Seine department of the Île-de-France region, serving as a western suburb of Paris, approximately 12.6 kilometers from the city center. It is one of the wealthiest suburbs in the Paris area, known for its blend of historical significance, green spaces, and modern economic vitality. The town officially adopted the name Rueil-Malmaison in 1928, combining "Rueil" (from its ancient roots as Rotoialum) with "Malmaison," referencing the famous Château de Malmaison, the former residence of Napoleon's first wife, Joséphine de Beauharnais. The term "Malmaison" originates from Medieval Latin "mala mansio," meaning "ill-fated domain," tied to a royal residence destroyed by Vikings in the 9th century. With a population of around 80,842 as of 2022, Rueil-Malmaison attracts families seeking a peaceful yet accessible lifestyle, often described as a haven of tranquility on the outskirts of Paris.
Rueil-Malmaison spans 14.7 square kilometers and is situated at coordinates 48°52′34″N 2°10′52″E. It lies along the banks of the Seine River, which has shaped its development, particularly in the 19th century when it became popular for riverside guinguettes (open-air dance halls) and boating activities. The terrain includes lush wooded areas, such as the Saint-Cucufa woods, and gently rolling landscapes that transition from urban zones to natural reserves. As part of the Grand Paris intercommunality, it benefits from its proximity to the Seine, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities while being integrated into the broader Parisian metropolitan area. The climate is temperate oceanic, typical of northern France, with mild winters and warm summers.
Human presence in Rueil-Malmaison dates back to the Mesolithic era,
with archaeological finds including an Azilian site from 10,300 to 8,700
BCE and remains of an Eurasian cave lion from around 12,000 years ago
near the Seine. The first written mention appears in the 6th century in
Gregory of Tours' "History of the Franks," describing it as Rotoialum
villae, a Roman-style villa that served as a leisure and hunting ground
for Merovingian kings from the 6th to 8th centuries. In 846, a royal
residence at Malmaison was razed by Viking invaders. The estate was
later donated to the Abbey of Saint-Denis around 870, and in the 12th
century, Benedictine monks constructed a chapel dedicated to Saint
Cucufa in the woods that bear his name.
The town endured destruction
in 1346 when English forces under Edward III burned it during the
Chevauchée campaign of the Hundred Years' War. The Château de Malmaison
was built in 1622 by financier Christophe Perrot and acquired by
Cardinal Richelieu in 1633. Its most famous period began in 1799 when
Joséphine de Beauharnais purchased it; during Napoleon's Consulate, it
hosted key events, including discussions on the Louisiana Purchase and
the creation of the Legion of Honor. Joséphine died there in 1814, and
her body is interred in the local Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul Church. The
town was looted by Anglo-Prussian troops in 1815 after the Hundred Days.
In the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871), it was a battlefield site,
particularly during the Battles of Buzenval. Occupied by German forces
in 1940 during World War II, it saw resistance activities, such as an
attack on the Guynemer barracks in 1943, and was liberated on August 19,
1944. Post-war development included the completion of a new town hall in
1978, and the town has since evolved into a modern suburb while
preserving its historical sites.
Rueil-Malmaison boasts a strong economy, driven by its status as a
hub for major corporations and a high standard of living. The population
has grown steadily, from 2,484 in 1793 to over 80,842 by 2022, with a
density of about 5,500 inhabitants per square kilometer. This growth
reflects 20th-century urbanization, peaking with increases in the
post-war era. Demographically, it features a mix of affluent residents,
including professionals commuting to Paris, and families drawn to its
quality of life.
Economically, the town hosts around 850
service-sector companies, with 70 employing over 100 people. The
Rueil-sur-Seine business district (formerly Rueil 2000), near the RER A
station, is equipped with advanced infrastructure like fiber-optic
networks. Notable global headquarters include Schneider Electric and
VINCI, while French branches of international firms such as ExxonMobil,
AstraZeneca, American Express, and Unilever are based here. The French
Institute of Petroleum's main campus also contributes to its research
and energy sectors. As of 2025, the economy remains robust, supported by
its proximity to Paris and ongoing developments in sustainable business
practices.
Rueil-Malmaison's cultural heritage is deeply tied to its Napoleonic
legacy and architectural treasures. The Château de Malmaison stands as
the premier landmark, now a museum dedicated to the Napoleonic era,
showcasing Joséphine's collections and period furnishings. The
Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul Church, with its notable graves including
Joséphine's, represents medieval and Renaissance influences. The
Guynemer barracks, constructed in 1756 and classified as a historic
monument since 1973, house the Swiss Guards Museum and remain in
military use.
The Musée d’histoire locale de Rueil-Malmaison offers
insights into local history, featuring an Ancient Egyptian mummy named
Ta-Iset since 2016. War memorials commemorate the Franco-Prussian War,
including sites on Rue du Général-Colonieu, in the old cemetery, and on
Rue du Commandant-Jacquot. Cultural life includes theaters, art
galleries, and events celebrating the town's heritage, with a focus on
Renaissance and Empire-era architecture. Famous residents and figures
associated with the town include Napoleon and Joséphine, as well as
aviator Georges Guynemer, after whom the barracks are named.
Tourism in Rueil-Malmaison revolves around its historical and natural
assets, making it ideal for day trips from Paris. The Château de
Malmaison is the main draw, with its three floors of exhibits, beautiful
gardens, rose garden, ponds, statues, black swans, and bridges—perfect
for reliving the splendors of the First Empire. Guided itineraries often
include the château, church, and surrounding parks, emphasizing
Napoleonic history.
Outdoor attractions abound, such as the
Saint-Cucufa woods for hiking and the Seine riverside for leisurely
walks or boating. The Parc de Bois-Préau, adjacent to the château,
offers expansive green spaces. Adventure seekers can enjoy tree-top
courses with flea jumps, stirrups, rope bridges, climbing walls, zip
lines, Tarzan swings, and jumps into the void, set in lush forests. As
of 2025, exhibitions and events at the château and local museums
continue to highlight cultural themes, with affordable entry fees. The
town's affluent charm is evident in its classic northern French
architecture, spacious gardens, and outdoor pools at luxury hotels.
Family-friendly spots include educational farms and wildlife areas,
while the overall atmosphere caters to those seeking a blend of history,
nature, and relaxation.
Rueil-Malmaison is highly accessible, thanks to its integration into the Paris public transport network. The RER A line serves the Rueil-Malmaison station, providing quick connections to central Paris (about 20 minutes to La Défense or 30 minutes to the Champs-Élysées). Multiple bus lines link to surrounding suburbs and the Seine valley. Road access is facilitated by the A86 and A14 motorways, making it convenient for drivers. For cyclists and pedestrians, the town features extensive paths along the Seine and through parks. Proximity to Paris Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports (about 30-45 minutes by car) enhances its appeal for international visitors. Local mobility includes eco-friendly options like bike-sharing and electric vehicle charging stations, reflecting ongoing sustainability efforts as of 2025.