Palace Of Versailles

Palace of Versailles: A Comprehensive Guide to France’s Iconic Site

Let us give you complete information about the Palace of Versailles so that you can know and enjoy this place completely. This palace is also known as Chateau de Versailles in French. It is world famous for its culture and architecture. This place is UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 20 kilometers southwest of Paris. We will try to give you complete information about Versailles Palace history, architecture and attractions of this place.

Brief History of the Palace of Versailles

Let us give you a brief information about its history. This palace was like a modest hunting lodge for King Louis XIII. But it was so grand that later Louis XIV, the “Sun King”, converted it into a grand palace. Its beauty is worth seeing.

With the changing times, in the year 1682 the French court and government moved to Versailles and this place got official recognition. The year 1789, which was the time of the French Revolution and Paris had become the political center by this time.

But the changing conditions forced Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette to leave the palace and thus Paris became the center of historical turmoil. But it is still reflecting the same grandeur.

The Palace of Versailles history is a tale of grandeur, power, and eventual upheaval.

Architectural Wonders of Versailles

The palace is known for its architecture and craftsmanship and is a source of great interest from all over the world. Famous artists include Louis Le Vau, François d’Orbay and Jules Hardouin-Mansart. The highlights of this place include:

Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces): You will be surprised to know that this prestigious gallery houses 357 mirrors and crystal chandeliers. The frescoes on the ceiling of the palace, made during the reign of King Louis XIV, look extremely beautiful and must-see for anyone visiting the palace and capturing Palace of Versailles photos.
Royal Apartments: You will get to see the grand rooms of the king and the queen in this palace. People call them King’s State Apartments and Queen’s Apartments. They are extremely beautiful. Visitors often ask “Who lived in the Palace of Versailles?” after seeing them. And the answer is that it housed kings Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI as well as Marie Antoinette.
The Chapel of Versailles: Whenever there was a royal ceremony in the palace, the ceremony was held in the Chapel of Versailles. This chapel is famous for its high ceilings and intricate details.

Gardens of Versailles

The garden was designed by Andre Le Notre and is commendable. The garden is spread over an area of more than 800 hectares. Visitors come to see the lined paths, fountains and sculptures that add to the beauty of the garden. Notable attractions include:

Grand Canal: This is a man-made waterway that is a center of attraction for visitors. One can ride a boat in this garden.
Orangerie: There is also a garden full of orange trees here which is very attractive to see.
Fountain Show: The most attractive thing in this place is the musical fountain show. Here you will get a chance to enjoy classical music which is accompanied by live fountains.

Trianon Estate

If you want to see the royal life, then you must see the Trianon Estate located in the grounds of Versailles, which is very grand. It includes:

Grand Trianon: Here King Louis XIV built a palace of pink marble for himself, which was used for his private retreat.
Petit Trianon: This is a small palace. This palace was given as a gift to Marie Antoinette.
Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet: It is famous among tourists as a rustic village. Here you will be able to easily see the rustic lifestyle of the queen. It is very attractive.

Visiting the Palace of Versailles

Tickets and Tours: This is a very attractive place, so in our opinion, you will be very comfortable if you choose guided tours and self-guided options. Along with this, you can come here only after booking Palace of Versailles tickets online in advance.
Getting there: The palace can be easily reached from Paris by RER C train or car.
Best time to visit: The best season to visit here is spring and autumn. At this time the gardens are lush green. Morning time is the best time to come here.

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Fun facts about the Palace of Versailles

Travelers who visit this place often ask, “How many rooms are there in the Palace of Versailles?” You will be surprised to know that there are about 2300 rooms here, but despite having so many rooms, there is not a single bathroom in them.
They are so beautiful that about millions of euros are spent every year on their maintenance.
There is a Hall of Mirrors at this place in which the Treaty of Versailles was signed to end World War I.
Visitors often ask, “When was the Palace of Versailles completed?” This palace was built in various stages which was fully completed in 1682.
Another question of travelers is “How big is the Palace of Versailles?” So you should know that it is spread over 67,000 square meters. It is extremely huge.

Frequently asked question