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All About the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles/ Find out all about the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles
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Contents
What is the Hall of Mirrors?
The Hall of Mirrors is a Baroque gallery, where mirrored walls reflect an endless series of gilded sculptures and intricate ceiling frescoes.This is one of Versailles’ most visited rooms, located within the palace. It was built to replace a large terrace in the same place and stretches an impressive 73 meters long. The hall features 17 ornate arches adorned with 357 mirrors, a testament to France's economic prosperity at the time and its ability to beat the Venetian monopoly over mirror production. On the ceiling, you will observe Charles Le Brun's exemplary work with 30 painted scenes chronicling the political successes of the first 18 years of the Sun King's reign. The hall's grandeur pushed it to become the site of several historical incidents like the Proclamation of the German Empire in 1871, the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, and many other royal ceremonies.
Know More About VersaillesWhy visit theHall of Mirrors?
A stage for French and European history: The Hall of Mirrors is steeped in history, being witness Proclamation of the German War after the French defeat in 1870, the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919 that ended World War I, and other official ceremonies that saw the likes of John F. Kennedy and such. It was a stage for both triumph and tragedy.
Marvel at the Baroque architecture: The hall's architecture is simply breathtaking. Its 17 arched windows, mirrored across 357 surfaces, create a mesmerizing play of light and reflection. The natural light, dancing across the shiny mirrors, makes the space seem almost infinite!
Observe the story on the ceiling: Look up and be captivated by the celestial scenes painted across the ceiling. Charles Le Brun, the king's chosen artist painted the early years of the Sun King's reign, highlighting his significant achievements.
What makes the Hall of Mirrors special?
Rouge de Rance Pilasters
The hall features Rouge de Rance marble pilasters made of red reef limestones and gilded bronze capitals based on the 'French Style.' Topped with symbols of French identity, such as the fleur-de-lis and Gallic roosters, these columns reflect the nation's pride and heritage.
Gold-Framed Windows
The hall is bathed in natural light streaming through its colossal, gold-framed windows. These windows help illuminate the space, making the hall look larger than it is. Fun fact: France was determined to build the Hall of Mirrors using only French materials, so these windows are as authentic as they get. When you look at them, feel the echoes of 17th-century France in every detail!
Ceiling Paintings by Charles Le Brun
Charles Le Brun painted 30 elaborate compositions on the ceiling representing Louis XIV's legacy and political victories during his first 18 years of rule. They emphasize his success during the Dutch Wars of the 1660s-1670s. One notable painting, 'The King Governs for Himself,' is right in the center of the ceiling and illustrates the Sun King residing on the mighty throne.
Mirror-Clad Arches
The Hall's 17 arches, adorned with 357 mirrors, are strategically positioned opposite the 17 embowed windows. Outside the windows lies the carefully maintained gardens of Versailles, with ancient trees, bushes trimmed in geometrical shapes, blooming flowers, and monumental fountains depicting Greek gods. This lush view is often reflected in the mirrors on the arches, replicating the garden's beauty inside the gallery.
Plan Your Visit to Versailles Hall of Mirrors
Opening Hours
Getting There
Timings: 9am to 6:30pm (Tuesdays to Sundays) during high season and 9am to 5:30pm (Tuesdays to Sundays) during low season
Last entry: 6pm during high season and 5pm during low season
Closed on: Monday, May 1, and December 25
Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Hall of Mirrors is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds so you can peacefully soak in the hall's grandeur without being rushed around.
Address: Palace of Versailles, Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
The Hall of Mirrors is centrally located within the Palace of Versailles, in the heart of the royal residence near the King's Grand Apartments.
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Frequently asked questions about Versailles Hall of Mirrors
Are Hall of Mirrors tickets included with general admission?
The hall of Mirrors was built between 1678 and 1684 during the reign of Louis XIV.
How many mirrors are there in the Hall of Mirrors?
Most general admission tickets to the Palace of Versailles include access to the Hall of Mirrors.
What makes the Hall of Mirrors unique compared to other galleries?
Its design, featuring 17 arched windows overlooking the gardens and 357 mirrors that reflect natural light, creates a dazzling visual effect unmatched by other galleries.
Are guided tours available for the Hall of Mirrors?
Yes, guided tours of the Palace of Versailles often include the Hall of Mirrors.
Is the Hall of Mirrors accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, the Palace of Versailles has facilities and accommodations to ensure accessibility for visitors with disabilities, including access to the Hall of Mirrors.
How long does a typical visit to the Hall of Mirrors take?
Visitors typically spend 30-45 minutes marveling at the architecture, artwork, and history of the gallery.
What is the best time to visit the Hall of Mirrors to avoid crowds?
Early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays are the best times to enjoy a quieter experience.