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European museums commemorate the Battle of Waterloo bicentenary

This June 18 marks the 200th anniversary of the battle that ended Napoleon Bonaparte's career in 1815. Marking the occasion, a number of museums have organized exhibitions on the famous French emperor, one of the most important figures in European history.

"Headed for America: Napoleon's Final Utopia"

After his defeat at Waterloo, Napoleon withdrew to his residence in Malmaison, France, now a museum (Musée National des Châteaux de Malmaison et Bois-Préau). Over the course of a few days in June, the emperor began making preparations for a journey to America, which he saw as a potential place of refuge. Through displays of the fallen statesman's luggage and personal effects, this exhibition aims to recreate the mood that surrounded his preparations to depart for the New World.

Through July 20 at the Musée National des Châteaux de Malmaison et Bois-Préau, Malmaison, France (website in French).

Napoleon I or the Legend of the Arts

The Musée National du Palais de Compiègne has chosen to tell the story of the Napoleonic Empire through its art and design. Divided into three parts, this exhibition will explore the historical underpinnings of French 18th century art, the new directions taken in the fine arts, and finally the furniture trends that emerged over the period.

Through July 27 at the Musée National du Palais de Compiègne in Compiègne, France (website in French).

Napoleon and Paris, Dreams of a Capital

The emperor had close ties to the French capital, where he carried out his famous coup of '18 Brumaire,' was ordained as First Consul, celebrated his marriage and even abdicated for the second time. The Carnavalet Museum will acquaint visitors with some of the monuments commissioned by the statesman, including those that can still be seen today (the Vendôme column, the Arc de Triomphe at Étoile and the smaller one at the Carrousel du Louvre) and others that were never erected, such as an elephant statue and fountain at the Place de la Bastille. The exhibition will also highlight some of the public utility projects carried out under the Empire, including bridges, canals, fountains, covered markets and cemeteries.

Through August 30 at the Carnavalet Museum in Paris, France.

Bonaparte and the British: Prints and Propaganda in the Age of Napoleon

Honored by some, mocked by others, the French general inspired a vast and varied iconography. In time for the Battle of Waterloo bicentenary, the British Museum has compiled an overview of both pro- and anti-Bonaparte visual propaganda. Visitors will find engravings, drawings and painted portraits of the general from the mid-1790s, along with his death mask.

Through August 16 at the British Museum in London, England.

Napoleon-Wellington: Intertwining destinies

The French general's sworn enemy, the Duke of Wellington was also the man who led the British forces to victory at Waterloo. Located in the small Belgian city, the Wellington Museum pays tribute to both men in its latest exhibit, which recounts their respective careers and displays some of their personal effects.

Through July 31 at the Wellington Museum in Waterloo, Belgium.