After decades of collaborating with architects, designers and sculptures, we got an epic masterpiece in the heart of Versailles, France. The breathtaking symmetrical gardens, the stunning hall of mirrors and not to forget the rich history, all inhabit within the majestic Palace of Versailles. Also known as the Château de Versailles, it is a representation of luxurious wealth and political power. The waves of tourists that come to visit this architectural wonder get to experience a trip of a lifetime. Stepping foot into this palace is a blast to the past and the colossal place is filled with content all year long. The Palace of Versailles is undeniably a monument that is ‘destination de rêve’ (the dream destination) for many people.
History
Initially, the Palace of Versailles was used as a hunting lodge and a private retreat for Louis XIII (reigned 1610-43) and his family. A few years later, in the year 1624, the King endowed Jacques Lemercier to construct a château on the site. This is now well preserved by the exterior facade overlooking the marble court. Under the guidance of Louis XIV (reigned 1643- 1715) the residence transformed within the years 1661-1710 into an intricate and colossal complex surrounded by stylish French and English gardens.
The architects who designed this wonder were the renowned Jules Hardouin-Mansart, Robert de Cotte, and Louis Le Vau. Charles Le Brun was the person in charge of the interior decoration. André Le Notre created the symmetrical French Gardens on the exterior of the palace. The Palace of Versailles was built quite lavishly as it was a fundamental part of Louis XIV’s lifestyle and moral beliefs about leadership, which was called absolutism. Louis XIV, the king of France was also referred to as the embodiment of France. The palace served as an emblem which displayed the wealth and power of his nation.
Architectural Wonder
The Palace of Versailles enlarged under the reign of Louis XIV. Every detail was placed to glorify the king and his wealth. The additions were designed, embellished and created by many renowned people. The land which sprawls for 2014 acres encompasses the fountain of Apollo, Galerie des Glaces (Hall of Mirrors), the King’s bedroom, and finally the Royal Chapel. The fountain of Apollo was most significant during the time of Louis XIV. Apollo was referred to as the Sun King – who drove the chariots with the sun across the sky. The fountain was symbolic of his control over nature.
The Hall of Mirrors
The Hall of Mirrors overlooks the park and is 240 feet long with a barrel vault. Mirrors are placed on one side of the rooms whilst windows on the other. This room gets its wow factor when the mirrors create the illusion that the room is wider than it actually is.
The King’s Bedroom
The King’s bedroom is located in the centre of the palace, and it is a symbol of luxury and peace. It is so big that ceremonies were also held in the king’s bedroom. This room is one of the most symbolic areas in the palace as the King spent most of his time in this ginormous breath-taking room.
The Gardens
Moving on to the gardens of the Palace of Versailles we can say that they will simply leave you speechless. The gardens cover more than 300, 000 acres of land and are home to 400 sculptures and 1400 fountains. The gardens took four decades to build and are the most exquisite English and French landscaping examples. The scent of the gardens is so strong that it makes the visitors ill, but nothing can defy the beauty of these magnificent gardens.
Contemporary Use and Tourists
The Palace of Versailles is a remarkable architectural wonder. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, and it is a popular tourist destination in France. People come to visit this palace to gawk at the lavish bedrooms, prepossessing artworks and pleasurable gardens. It is a national historic building and is the place where the French parliament meets the Congress.
In conclusion, the Palace of Versailles is a splendid architectural wonder. With stately walls embellished with new collections of paintings and sculptures, it is a representation of great figures in French history. It also marks important events which have made the France we know today. The Palace of Versailles’ beauty cannot be described in simple words, but it undeniably is an imposing structure that fills one with awe and exuberance.
Writer : Aarna Sharma
Grade : 7 (Year 2024)
Place : Sydney, Australia
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