Welcome to our blog "Ghost Stories From France: Red Man of the Tuileries". In this blog, we delve into some of the most spine-chilling specter tales from the historic and mysterious country of France. Be ready to delve deep into the haunting lore of the famous Red Man of the Tuileries, a well-known French ghost story that has lingered over the past centuries.

Red Man of the Tuileries

One of the most famous ghost stories from France is the Red Man of the Tuileries. The Red Man, also known as the Little Red Man, is a ghost who has been linked throughout history with the kings and queens of France, most notably in the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte. Appearing often at Tuileries Palace in Paris, the ghost is said to be clothed all in red, hence his name. The ghost is reputed to be the spirit of Jean the Skinner, a butcher residing in Paris in the 16th century. He was a notorious follower of Catherine de Medici, the queen mother at the time. According to legend, Jean was murdered by the queen herself or by her orders after he had gained too much of her confidence. After his death, Jean's ghost started to appear in the Tuileries wearing a red cloak, his outfit finished with a pair of red shoes. He was often seen before or during dramatic events in French history. One of the most famous encounters was with Napoleon Bonaparte. Following his victory in Egypt, Napoleon spent his first night at the Tuileries where he saw the Red Man who told him, "You may remain in the palace on condition that you do much for my city and my people." When Napoleon declared himself emperor, the ghost reappeared and said, "You have not kept your word. Hence, you shall no longer remain at the Tuileries." Many believed it was a prophecy of Napoleon's abdication and subsequent exile. When the Tuileries Palace was destroyed in 1871 during the Paris Commune, the specter of the Red Man was reportedly seen in the flames, apparently forever losing his haunt.