Palace of Versailles

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Former royal residence in Versailles, France

The Palace of Versailles (French: Château de Versailles ) is a former royal residence located in Versailles, Yvelines, France. It is renowned for its opulent architecture, extensive gardens, and historical significance. The palace was originally a hunting lodge built by Louis XIII of France in 1623, but it was transformed and expanded by his son, Louis XIV of France, who moved the royal court to Versailles in 1682.

History

Early History

The site of the Palace of Versailles was initially a hunting lodge for Louis XIII of France. In 1661, Louis XIV of France commissioned the architect Louis Le Vau to transform the lodge into a grand palace. The construction continued under the direction of Jules Hardouin-Mansart, who added the Hall of Mirrors and the Grand Trianon.

Expansion and Renovation

Under the reign of Louis XIV of France, the palace underwent significant expansion. The Hall of Mirrors (French: Galerie des Glaces ) was constructed between 1678 and 1684. The Gardens of Versailles, designed by André Le Nôtre, were also expanded to include elaborate fountains, sculptures, and manicured lawns.

French Revolution and Aftermath

During the French Revolution, the palace was stripped of its furnishings, and many of its artworks were relocated to the Louvre Museum. The Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I, was signed in the Hall of Mirrors in 1919.

Architecture

The Palace of Versailles is an exemplar of Baroque architecture. Key features include the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Chapel of Versailles, and the Grand Apartments. The palace is also known for its extensive gardens, which include the Orangery, the Fountain of Apollo, and the Grand Canal.

Gardens

The Gardens of Versailles cover approximately 800 hectares and are a masterpiece of landscape architecture. Designed by André Le Nôtre, the gardens feature geometric patterns, elaborate fountains, and a variety of sculptures. The Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon are smaller palaces located within the gardens.

Cultural Significance

The Palace of Versailles is a symbol of the absolute monarchy of the Ancien Régime. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in France.

Related Pages

• Louis XIV of France
• Hall of Mirrors
• Gardens of Versailles
• French Revolution
• Treaty of Versailles
• Baroque architecture
• UNESCO World Heritage Site

External Links

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