Located 40 kilometers north of Paris, in the Oise department of Hauts-de-France, Senlis is a historic walled town renowned for its 2,000-year heritage, well-preserved medieval core and profound royal legacy. Nestled between the forests of Chantilly, Ermenonville and Halatte, it was known as Augustomagus in Gallo-Roman times. The town’s most iconic landmark is Senlis Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Senlis), a 12th‑century Gothic masterpiece famous for its west portal’s Coronation of the Virgin, one of the oldest surviving Gothic sculptural ensembles. Surrounding the old town are remarkably preserved Gallo-Roman walls (3rd century), among the finest in northern Gaul, plus medieval ramparts that once defended a royal seat. Senlis was a key royal residence: in 987, Hugh Capet was elected King of France at the Royal Castle, making it the birthplace of the Capetian dynasty. For centuries, French kings lived here, and the town flourished as a political and cultural center. Today, Senlis enchants visitors with its labyrinth of cobblestone streets, half‑timbered houses, hidden courtyards and peaceful squares. Its protected historic sector (42 hectares, created 1962) preserves a cohesive medieval atmosphere. Beyond architecture, Senlis offers museums, art galleries and scenic walks along the Nonette River, blending royal grandeur, Gothic brilliance and rural tranquility into an unforgettable day trip from Paris.