A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Palace of Versailles was the residence of the Kings of France Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI from 1682 until the French Revolution in 1789. Your audio guide commentary gives you the perfect opportunity to visit the majestic Palace of Versailles at your own pace. Admire its Baroque architecture, sumptuous decoration, works of art, and the furniture created by some of history's greatest artisans. After your tour, enjoy a stroll through the palace's gardens.
Stretching for more than 721,000 square feet, the Palace of Versailles consists of over 700 rooms. Your audio guide will help you find your way during your visit, tell you about the history of the palace, and immerse you in its special atmosphere. Visit the palace's most beautiful rooms: the King's Grand Apartment, with seven salons each dedicated to a different god (Apollo, Mars, Mercy, Venus, etc.), and the Queen's Grand Apartment, laid out in a mirror image of those of the king, including the Coronation Room and the Queen's Bedroom, once occupied by Queen Marie Antoinette. Spend time marveling at the spectacular Hall of Mirrors, a unique room in which guests were received and impressed, designed by the famous architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart. Almost 240 feet-long, it was designed to astonish the Sun King's (Louis XIV) visitors and is lit by 17 windows and 350 mirrors. It also offers breathtaking views of the palace's beautiful gardens.
In 1661, Louis XIV commissioned the gardener André Le Nôtre to lay out the grounds and gardens, something that was just as important as the construction of the palace itself as far as the king was concerned. Spend time exploring the Palace of Versailles gardens and admire the many artworks they contain (more than 200 statues), fountains, ponds, flower beds and woodland. During the Summer months, a range of activities are organized, such as the "Grandes Eaux,” when the many fountains are made to dance to music.
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Guide's recommendations
Mônica, Tour Escort since 2015
I am fascinated by the monarchy. Versailles is an example of the supremacy and sovereignty, and the fashion and luxury of a select elite who, within its walls, established many of the customs we still follow today. It is a reflection of a unique era in world history, of a powerful and sovereign king, envied throughout Europe. Come and discover the anecdotes, the daily life of the chateau, the secrets of the Court and the behind-the-scenes stories.
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