This stunning example of a wealthy colonial town home is one of the finest still in existence in America and is listed as a National Historic Landmark.

The building was first constructed in 1794 following a large fire that destroyed the majority of the French Quarter. Its location at the corner of Chartres and St. Louis, placed it at the epicenter of the colonial financial district.

The structure was home to wealthy French merchant Nicholas Girod who served as New Orleans' fifth mayor between 1812 and 1815. It was during his administration that General Andrew Jackson occupied the city and fought the critical Battle of New Orleans in nearby Chalmette.

The structure was expanded in 1814 and is purported to have been the home chosen for exiled French Emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte. However, his death in 1821 halted these plans.

The house continued to be one of the finest homes in New Orleans throughout the 19th century, having many unique architectural features added.

Throughout the early 20th century, the building saw use as a grocery store. Since the end of prohibition, the Napoleon House, as it was now called, has been home to a succession of popular bars and cafes.