In pictures: Inside the Sheikh Khalifa at the Palace of Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau started life as 12th century hunting lodge, was transformed into a palace in the 16th century and became associated with every French ruler — king, queen, empress and emperor — for almost 800 years. Now, thanks to Abu Dhabi’s sponsorship of the restoration of Fontainebleau’s theatre, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed’s name will be added to an illustrious list. Words by Nick Leech. All photos by Christophe Morin for The National