Taking a Closer Look At Le Chateau

Many times in the past I have talked about the beauties and the detailing in and around Le Chateau de la Belle au Bois Dormant at Disneyland Paris.

There is so much detailing throughout le Chateau that it is easy to overlook some of it. Of course, we have the distinct shape and positioning of the Castle from the outside, and inside the Castle there is the wonders of the Dragon's Lair in the dungeons and the story of Sleeping Beauty in the heart of the Castle.Because there is so much to see and do inside the Castle itself, it is the very small details that remain unnoticed by many guests. And some of these are the most beautiful. But hopefully I can introduce you to these, and on your next trip (whether it be your first your ninety-first) you can take a small moment to appreciate the work and the imagination of the Imagineers.

For example, at the side of le Chateau there is an archway which you can pass under, should you wish to not go through the main lobby. Above the archway you can see the Coat of Arms of the Royal Family, which is very similar to some English coats of arms (i.e. with three lions). I imagine this passageway was constantly guarded by the Knights and the Soldiers, especially during the Medieval times.
Another hidden corner of the Castle is an area which contains a lift, available for use for those who cannot manage stairs. As you can see from the detailing above the wooden doors, the stone carving depicts a couple of dragons holding a parchment showing -1 (dungeons), 0 (ground level), 1 (Sleeping Beauty's Story).
But perhaps my favourite detailing comes from underneath the archway itself, and the stone carvings around the pillars. This is the detail we Disney Geeks love, right?