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The Palace of Versailles: A Masterpiece of French History 

The Palace of Versailles is not just a monument; it is the radiant symbol of the absolute power of the French monarchy under Louis XIV. Located in the Yvelines department, about twenty kilometers southwest of Paris, this UNESCO World Heritage site attracts millions of visitors from around the world every year. 

A Royal Genesis: From Hunting Lodge to Palace

It all began in 1623 when Louis XIII built a modest hunting lodge of brick and stone. However, it was his son, Louis XIV, the "Sun King," who transformed this site into a sumptuous residence starting in 1661. Under the direction of genius artists such as architect Louis Le Vau, gardener André Le Nôtre, and decorator Charles Le Brun, Versailles became the center of political power and court life until the French Revolution in 1789. 

Must-See Jewels

An exhaustive visit to the estate includes several distinct areas:

• The Palace: With its 2,300 rooms, it houses the famous King’s and Queen’s Grand Apartments, and most notably the Hall of Mirrors. At 73 meters long and adorned with 357 mirrors, it served as a passageway and waiting area for courtiers. 
• The French Gardens: A true open-air museum, the park covers over 800 hectares. Visitors can admire infinite perspectives, 55 fountains (including the Apollo Fountain), and hundreds of statues. 
• The Estate of Trianon: To escape the rigid court protocol, sovereigns retreated to the Grand Trianon (pink marble) or the Petit Trianon, gifted by Louis XVI to Marie-Antoinette. 
• The Queen’s Hamlet: A rustic village with picturesque charm where the Queen enjoyed the pleasures of country life.