Architecture Feature - Palace of Versailles

Photo Credit: Oh Paris/Flickr

Those who have been there know that France exudes elegance in every aspect of it, and the Palace of Versailles truly represents France in every sense. The grandiose royal palace which is snuggled 20 kilometres southwest of the capital city of France – Paris is indeed one of the most ostentatious architectural innovations of all times.

Hence, we decided to explore the intricacies of the Palace of Versailles in our Architecture Feature series.

Photo Credit: HarshLight/Flickr

The Palace of Versailles, also known as Chateau de Versailles in French, was originally constructed as a hunting lodge in the year 1624. However, the construction of the four major buildings began only from the year 1664 onwards. Prior to the French Revolution which began in the year 1789, the Palace of Versailles remained the dwelling seat of the political power of France for well over 100 years.

Photo Credit: rieh/Flickr

Palace of Versailles is an excellent example of the Baroque style of architecture, which also developed in the 17th century. As is evident in the structure of Chateau de Versailles, this style of architecture is characterized by multifaceted designs and extravagant embellishments. The palace boasts of majestic walls and ceilings, mesmerizingly beautiful portraits and boldly ornamented sculptures in varying layouts and shades.

Photo Credit: rieh/Flickr

Spread over a colossal floor area of about 67, 000 square metres, there are several sections within the palace area, some of which include:

• Grands Appartements (French) – The royal residences
• Gallerie des Glaces (French) – The Hall of Mirrors, an important attraction in the palace
• Chapel of Versailles – The chapel is one of the best places to witness the lushness of French Architecture
• L’Opera (French) – This is the opera hall of the Palace of Versailles
• Museum of the history of Versailles – Founded in the 1800s, this museum houses paintings, sculptures and collections which familiarize one with the history and culture of France
• Gardens of Versailles – Just as famous as the palace itself, these gardens which surround the palace are eminent examples of French formal gardens

Photo Credit: Oh Paris/Flickr

The Palace of Versailles has witnessed constant evolution and several modifications ever since its initiation in the 17th century. The Palace of Versailles is also one of France’s most expensive monuments, with billions of dollars’ worth of money spent on its construction and restoration from time to time.

Photo Credit: Oh Paris/Flickr

That said, a visit to the Palace of Versailles is one of the best places to experience French culture and its rich architecture for anyone visiting France.

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