Versailles Facts That Will Surprise You

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

The French government monopolized mirror production, entrusting a single company with the supply of exquisite mirrors adorning every corner of the palace.

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.

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 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.

The gardens featured a winding and complex labyrinth, challenging visitors with twists and turns, and mirroring the alliances, rivalries, and hidden agendas faced by the courtiers.

Court etiquette was taken to extremes at Versailles, with King Louis XIV's elaborate dinners often featuring dozens of courses and exotic dishes, allowing the nobility to watch him dine.

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.