The Palace of Versailles is one of the most famous buildings in France, which is famous for its marble Hall of Mirrors and immense gardens. However, there is much more to Versailles than its rich facade and its royal past. Housed within the palace complex are a number of small ‘museums’ which offer a more detailed insight into the history of France, its traditions, and its artistic heritage. From the Gallery of Great Battles to the Museum of the History of France, these museums have a treasure trove of exhibits and artefacts, histories, and legends brought to life, ready for the visitor to discover.
Location and Communication System
The Palace of Versailles is in the town of Versailles and is only 20 kilometres southwest of Paris. The palace is easily accessible by the RER C train from Paris to the Versailles Château-Rive Gauche station. Some of the bus lines that operate at this stop include 171 and 262. It is easily accessible and handy for both visitors planning a day trip and those who are on a short or long vacation in the region.
Visiting Hours
- Palace Museum: Open from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm, closed on Mondays and May 1st.
- Estate of Trianon Museum: Open from 12:00 pm to 6:30 pm, also closed on Mondays and May 1st.
For more information, you can visit the official website here.
The Museum of the History of France: A Journey Through Time
One of the best-concealed features of Versailles is the Museum of the History of France, developed by King Louis-Philippe in 1837. It was intended to tell the story of France and its rich history through some of the best artefacts, paintings and sculptures ever created. The exhibits are presented according to important historical periods from the Middle Ages to the Napoleonic era and further.
Among the highlights are the large-scale historical paintings, including the Battle of Valmy and Napoleon’s Coronation. These masterpieces provide a glimpse of the French military and political history; this makes this museum a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of France.
The Gallery of Great Battles: Celebrating French Military Wins
Located inside the Palace of Versailles, the Gallery of Great Battles is a large room that portrays France’s greatest victories. This gallery is more than 120 meters long and contains 33 large paintings depicting the key French battles of history from Charlemagne to the Napoleonic Wars.
Some of the famous paintings are that of the Battle of Bouvines and the Battle of Austerlitz, which displays the talent of artists of that time. More than a simple homage to the military triumphs, it is a virtual trip into the essence of French warfare.
The King’s Private Apartments: A Glimpse Into Royal Life
While thousands of tourists visit the Hall of Mirrors and the State Apartments, only a handful of them bother to visit the King’s Private Apartments. These rooms, which were once reserved for Louis XIV and his successors, offer a closer view to the surroundings of the palace. Owing to the presence of artworks, furniture, and other personal effects, these areas present us with the French monarchy in its most intimate aspects.
There are some splendid Renaissance paintings and Baroque sculptures in the apartments, giving a rather good idea of the taste of the royal family. These lesser-known areas provide tourists with a look into the private, routine existence of the kings who once commanded Versailles.
The Palace’s Architectural Evolution: From A Hunting Lodge To A Royal Palace
The Palace of Versailles was not always a monument of luxury and grandeur of the French monarchy. In its earliest form, it was a small hunting lodge constructed by Louis XIII. Louis XIV, however, extended it and made it into a magnificent palace.Some of the most famous architects, such as Jules Hardouin-Mansart and Louis Le Vau, contributed to the expansion of the palace by constructing such features as the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Chapel, and the Orangerie
Designs of the palace reflect the tastes and power of French monarchy, from Baroque during the reign of Louis Architecturally, Versailles can be seen as a rich and elaborate example of how monarchy was built into the fabric of France.
Frequently Searched Questions:
What to Do in Versailles Besides the Palace and Gardens
- How long would it take you to explore the Palace of Versailles?
To appreciate the palace, the gardens, the secret museums, it is advisable to spend at least one day in the palace.
- When is the best time to visit the Palace of Versailles?
However, the palace is mostly crowded between 10 AM and 2 PM, so it is wise to visit the palace either in the morning before 10 AM or in the afternoon after 2 PM.
- Is it allowed to take pictures inside the Palace of Versailles?
Yes, it is allowed to take photographs in the entire palace, but it is not allowed to use flash photography in some zones to protect the paintings.
- What is the cost of entry into the Palace of Versailles?
Admission to the palace and its gardens is at €18, while there is no charge during the first Sunday of every month from November to March.
- Is the Palace of Versailles wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the palace is fully equipped for disabled persons with ramps, elevators, and even disabled-friendly restrooms.
Should You Visit the Palace of Versailles’ Hidden Museums?
Although the Hall Whether you are interested in the military victory of France, the life of royalties or the development of Renaissance art, these obscure museums will give you a different look. A tour of Versailles should not be complete without discovering these great places.
A Final Thought: Exploring the HIDDEN TREASURES of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is not just an example of Royal excess but also a treasure trove of French history, culture and art. As a result, by exploring other than famous museums, tourists can get acquainted with France’s history more deeply. Whether you are to indulge your passion for art, architecture or history, a visit to the Palace of Versailles is a lot more than what you expect.
