Versailles: Attractions and more...
The place to see in Versailles is, of course, the Château de Versailles. The original site was a rather modest Royal Hunting Lodge from which the palace grew through a series of expansions.
This led to a certain imbalance in the architecture, as the heart of the palace is disproportionate with its final dimensions. However, Versailles is a key example of baroque palace architecture.
When King Louis XIV relocated the court here in 1682, Versailles became the centre of power in France and the major developments took place during his reign.
Perhaps the most striking feature of Louis XIV's project is the Galerie des Glaces or ‘Hall of Mirrors’. This gallery is on the first floor and takes its name from its 357 mirrors.
At the time, these mirrors were of a size never seen before..
Before the palace lie the grounds of Versailles, one of the largest formal gardens ever created, designed by André Le Nôtre, with extensive terraces, canals and fountains.
What to see in detail
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