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Versailles Facts That Will Surprise You
Versailles TicketsVersailles Palace Facts
- Versailles Palace
- Hall of Mirrors
- Gardens
- King's State Apartments
- Estate of Trianon
- Versailles Estate
- Museum of the History of France
- The Great Stables
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- History
- Architecture
- Inside
- Queen's Hamlet
- City of Versailles
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Contents
Versailles Facts
Royal Ice-Skating Rink
When winter cast its chill, the expansive Grand Canal at Versailles transformed into a breathtaking ice-skating rink, delighting the royal court with the thrill of gliding across frozen waters.
A Symbol of Sun Worship
Louis XIV, known as the "Sun King," deliberately associated himself with the sun. The palace itself was designed to radiate outwards like the sun's rays, with the Hall of Mirrors as its dazzling center. This symbolism reinforced his image as the absolute ruler of France.
Gilded Abundance
The iconic gates, sculptures, and interiors of Versailles were adorned with over 1,000 kilograms of gold leaf back in the 17th century, making it a symbol of opulence.
Hidden Library
Hidden within the palace's walls, a secret library held over 4,000 precious books. This was a secluded haven for intellectual pursuits and moments of quiet contemplation.
Hall of Mirrors' Political Purpose
Beyond its captivating architectural brilliance, the Hall of Mirrors served as a strategic meeting place, witnessing the signing of diplomatic treaties and crucial negotiations, shaping European history.
Versailles' Mirror Supply
The French government monopolized mirror production, entrusting a single company with the supply of exquisite mirrors adorning every corner of the palace.
Tour de France
Every half-century, the legendary Tour de France kicks off from the majestic setting of Versailles, a unique blend of sporting spectacle and royal heritage.
Artistic Painted Ceiling
The Queen's chamber ceiling was a magnificent canvas adorned with a vivid painting of Aurora, the Roman goddess of dawn, welcoming each new day with radiant splendor.
The Haunting of the Queen's House
The Queen's House, a secluded building in the gardens, was believed to be haunted by the ghost of Marie Antoinette, with reports of her spectral apparition roaming the grounds.
Maze of Mysteries
The gardens featured a perplexing labyrinth, challenging visitors with twists and turns, echoing the maze of intrigue and power within the court.
Royal Dining Drama
Court etiquette was taken to extremes at Versailles, with King Louis XIV's elaborate dinners becoming public spectacles, allowing the nobility to watch him dine.
A Breeding Ground for Fashion
Versailles set the trends for European fashion. The elaborate hairstyles, the extravagant clothing, and the meticulous grooming of the court were closely observed and imitated throughout the continent.
Book Tickets to Versailles
Frequently Asked Questions About Versailles Facts
How much gold was used in Versailles' gilding?
Over 1,000 kilograms of gold leaf adorned the gates, sculptures, and interiors, symbolizing opulence during the 17th-century French monarchy.
Did Marie Antoinette have a secret room?
Yes, Marie Antoinette had a private chamber known as the "secret room," adorned with intimate paintings, offering her solace from court life.
What role did Versailles play during the French Revolution?
In 1789, the Women's March on Versailles forced the royal family to relocate to the Tuileries Palace in Paris, effectively marking the end of Versailles as the center of royal power. The Revolution also saw the confiscation and auctioning of many of Versailles' treasures.
Are there any myths or legends associated with the palace?
One popular legend revolves around the "Queen's Hamlet," built for Marie Antoinette. Some visitors claim to have seen apparitions of the queen, lending Versailles an air of mystique.
Did Versailles have an aviary?
Yes, the Menagerie at Versailles housed exotic birds, giving the king a tranquil retreat to observe his feathered friends.
What is the most expensive item in the Palace of Versailles?
The Hall of Mirrors constructed in 1678, contains 357 mirrors that were among the most expensive items at the time.
What were the chandeliers in the Hall of Mirrors made of?
The Hall of Mirrors is the most famous room in the Palace of Versailles with 3,570 Venetian mirrors and illuminated by 3,000 candles when fully lit.
What did the Sun King's War Room contain?
King Louis XIV's War Room displayed miniature battlefield models, serving as a strategic command center to plan military campaigns.
Did Versailles have a labyrinth?
Yes, the gardens featured a labyrinth, challenging visitors with twists and turns, echoing the intrigue within the royal court.