The harmonious world of palaces and parks of Versailles. Palace and Park Ensemble Versailles

And cultural lifting. Especially known great monarch as a customer himself beautiful palace in the world. The merit of the king is that today everyone knows where Versailles is and what it is. But what is known about the very monumental construction? It will be interesting to get acquainted with his story and touch the legends whose witness he became. Moreover, France was famous for intrigues and palace secrets to the whole of Europe.

From an unknown village to the center of the country

Louvre is now one of the most prestigious museums in the world, and once he served for French monarchs in the house. It was in his walls that important agreements subscribed and complex interstate issues were solved. There was partially the childhood of Louis XIV. But the man has never been singing a special love to Paris, nor to Louvra.

The official reason for the transfer of the residency was the fear of the king for their lives. He stated that in the capital he feels in constant danger, so the suburb of Paris will be the new palace. Then, in 1661, no one had no idea where Versailles are. But after a few years, the fame of the brilliant residence of the Sun king spread across Europe.

For the first time about these parts mentioned in 1038. More than five hundred years the place was just a tiny settlement, overgrown with forests and covered with impassable swamps. There were a lot of game on these lands, and the father of Louis XIV loved to hunt there. On his initiative in 1623, a hunting house was built on one of the polls. There Louis XIII, nicknamed fair, often rested with her son.

The first stone laid - envy

Despite statements about the danger, which Louvre carries, courtesy perfectly knew the true cause of the construction of a new residence.

The history of Versailles began on August 17, 1661. It was this evening that 55 kilometers from Paris Finance Minister Nicolas Fuka organized solemn reception In honor of the new school. The new home was the castle of the La Viconte with the gardens of unprecedented beauty. The palace immediately took the position of the leader and ... overtook Louvre. Unheard of drying!

The celebration was also attended by Louis XIV. He was struck by the greatness and wealth of the estate, moreover, caused envy. Another unpleasant moment was the pride of the owner. In the same evening, without waiting for the completion of the feast, the king told the architects Louis Levo, Julia Ardenen-Mansar and the park scheduler Andre Lenotru, who worked on the project in Le Vikont, that from this minute they are under his leadership. Their task is to create an object that will be worthy of His Majesty. It was these three people who became the first to find out where Versailles are located.

First obstacles

Masters were friends and understood each other with a half-clow. The requirement that the king put forward was a big honor and ... significant risk. The first wishes of the customer: Leave a modest hunting house, which laid his father. The 24-meter building building has become a big problem for architects.

Garden projector also encountered troubles. Wetlands, deaf forests demanded an outstanding forces to create from them the parks like paradise. But the main obstacle was the king himself. He demanded to do everything qualitatively and as much as possible. It was assumed that it would not be just a palace, but a gorgeous ensemble, so beautiful that I would not even mind to ask for anyone: "And Versailles - where is it?" According to Louis, it was supposed to be a place where the sky occurs with the earth.

The work began with the fact that in the village put at home for thousands of builders. Louis Himself XIV Meanwhile, the surrounding lands missed.

Heart of France

For a lush castle, styles of baroque and classicism were chosen. The main facade of the palace is a mirror gallery. Its windows went to the park, and a parallel wall, fucked by fashionable ones, which was then considered the cleanest, reflected the garden diagrams.

The main palace was the ballrooms and bedrooms of the nobility. Each centimeter was drawn up with taste. The walls were decorated with wooden carvings, frescoes, paintings, in the niches stood sculptures. Not uncommon - silver and gold in rooms. In the Paradle Palace there was a bedroom of the king himself. On both sides were the halls of Versailles.

Another reason for the construction of such a huge complex I became Louis XIV. Supporter of the absolute monarchy wanted to keep all subjects under control. In such a grand palace where 20,000 subjects could fit, the goal became real. But here it is worth noting that spacious apartments were provided with noble nobles, favorites and favorites, serving lived in tiny chulans.

Hall of Godheads

The pride of the residence was a mirror gallery. Its length reached 73 meters, width - 11 m. 357 Mirrors created a visual illusion. It seemed that the park was defeated on both sides of the palace. The hall of the painting and frescoes, statues with gilding and crystal chandeliers decorated.

Then every poor thing knew where Versailles were. The king allowed him to visit it all, because it was sure that this is the pride of all France. Every commoner could turn to the monarch in the walls of the palace.

Halls were very popular, which were named after Greek and so, the Diana Hall was used at the receptions as a billiard room. All tables were covered with expensive raspberry velor with gold fringe around the edges.

Apollo Hall served for diplomatic negotiations. In the evenings, scenes were shown in it, in which the king-sun was attended. Also was the military glory of France.

Andre Lenotr was engaged in the design of royal gardens. The researchers believe that the splendor of the park is associated with the person of Louis XIV. The fields occupied 8300 hectares. Each composition harmoniously fited into the ensemble. The monarch did not want to wait for years until the trees and bushes would rise, so they were partially transported from other lands, including clean and with the La Viconte.

The Scheme of Versailles resembles the rays of the sun, diverged from the center of the alleys and squares. So the chief gardener wanted to exalt the king-sun of Louis XIV.

Thousands of soldiers worked on the channels and fountains that were called "Little Venice". Water for such a mass of the pools was not enough, so they made special strait from neighboring rivers.

Financial side

The favorite phrase of the monarch was a saying: "The state is me!" It was from these considerations in the treasury immediately found money for construction. But with the continuation of the work, the question of where to take funds, arose more and more. Initially, a thousand peasants worked at the construction site. In the future, more than 30,000 builders were involved. In peaceful times, the tools took into the hands and soldiers of the king.

Of course, it was not without sacrifices. Hundreds broke to death on the foundation of the castle. It became even more when the brigades began to work according to the schedule. People worked in the day and night. Construction in the dark for many has become fatal.

For a long time, the king hid the truth. When information flooded to the surface, he, without regretting the budget, began to pay compensation to the victims and their relatives.

Nevertheless, they tried to save on everything. Dozens of fireplaces did not work. Doors and windows faced loosely. It created inconvenience for residents in winter. The castle was very cold.

For a long time, each inhabitant of the palace could rebuild his apartments to his taste. But during the nine-year-old war, all expenses for the repair laid on the shoulders of the nobles.

Today, a few centuries later, it is difficult to evaluate the full cost of the palace. And documentary evidence has not been preserved.

The fate of the residence after Louis XIV

The project was the beloved brainchild of the king, because he himself participated in his planning. Palace is not only the court secrets of Versailles, but also the events of world importance. There were conspiracies and intrigues, an approximate monarch, and the members themselves laughed and cried, loved and hated, they peaked out the fates of ordinary mortals and entire states ...

Two subsequent ruler lived in Versaille. But, in connection with political and economic peripetia, already in 1789 to keep the palace was hard. The halls were used only as museum rooms.

After the loss in the Franco-German war in the mirror hall was proclaimed several dozen years later, the same room was witnessing a truce and loss of the tripled union.

It is impossible to visit France and do not visit Versailles. This is not just an architecture, it is a dream embodied in life. The symbol of what a person can absolutely all. The main thing is to have a solid faith in the future and quite a bit of determination to use your chance. If you suddenly ever find yourself in France, be sure to visit Versailles. Tourist feedback on this miracle architecture is simply enthusiastic. This palace-park ensemble is the most luxurious royal residence of Europe. Huge buildings, spacious squares, large terraces with accession directly to the park, galleries, perfect lawns, symmetrical tracks, alive hedges, rainbow flower beds, sparkling fountains - all this was created in Versailles on Fun King, his family, favorites and courtiers.

Place VersaillesLocated not far from Paris, was the royal land and was a flat wetland, partially covered with mellows. On this territory from 1661 to 1700, Lenotrom with the arch. The left and mansor and the artist Lebedron created a palace and park ensemble. Its sizes are grand: the so-called Small Park occupied an area of \u200b\u200b1738 hectares, and a large hunting park adjacent to him - 6600 hectares. First, preliminary work began on the preparation of the territory - to drain the terrain with the help of channels, the creation of tanks that feed the aquatic devices of the park, grounding of the Earth on a significant area. For the landing, a huge number of trees from various regions of France and other countries were brought. However, despite all the efforts, landings were short-lived and after 150 years some of the trees had to be replaced. In the assortment from hardwood, oak, elm, linden, ash, beech, maple, ramp, chestnut edible, pyramidal poplar, from coniferous - tees and spruce, from fruit - apple tree, pear, cherry.

As a result, Lenotr created a single grand ensemble, in which nature, transformed into the park, is subordinate to the architecture, and the park itself was a link between the architecture and the natural nature of the surrounding forest.

The implementation of these ideas was based on the following principles:

• the development of space on the main longitudinal axis subordinating transverse axes, balancing compositions, and concentrating around themselves boss;
• the creation of extensive open partner spaces around the palace, emphasizing its primacy and revealing architecture;
• creation of culmination on the main composite axis with the disclosure of a distant perspective;
• the introduction of diagonal radiation roads coming from forest arrays through the park and converging to the palace;
• accounting for the features of the optical perception of space.

Palace is the dominant park. The length of its facade is approximately 500 m. From the east to it, the famous three-babe of roads coming from Paris, Saint-Clock and CO, converging on the Army Square.

Western facade facade to the park. The space at the palace is open and decorated with extensive parquets. In the center of the palace facade there is a water parquet in the form of two flat marble pools, decorated with sculptures, symbolizing the River France (area of \u200b\u200b1.5 hectares). The main longitudinal axis starts from him, on which consistently posted: a floral margin with a fountain of laton, a green carpet, the chariot of Apollo and, finally, a large canal. Further, the prospect is revealed on the round area (the star of the king) with the rays of the roads converging to it. The length of the green carpet is 330 m, the width is 45 m, including the 25-meter strip of lawn and the width of the roads running around. Along the carpet in the walls of boss at a distance of 30 m, vases and marble statues were placed. The size of a large channel: the length of the longitudinal part-1600 m, transverse - 1000, width - over 50 m. The channel was used for riding boats and device festivities on the water. In addition, he performed important ameliorative functions, contributing to a decrease in the level of groundwater and the drainage of the park. But the most remarkable is the decorative effect of its mirror surface, illuminated by the solar rays, especially strong in the evening with Western orientation.

The end of the axis behind the star of the king flanked with pyramidal poplars. Its perspective is not closed, and the overall length is 3 km (this is the maximum limit of clear visibility with multiple lighting). Lenotr, striving to the effect of infinite, leaving the distance in the distance, given the laws of optical perception, limited the length of the axis by this size, noted its end with verticals of the poplars, leaving the space behind them free.

The transverse axes of the park play an important role. This is primarily a jigsaw part with northern, southern and water parquets. Northern Parter goes into the Alley of Children and ends the Neptune Basin; South, raised above the surface of the Earth by 13 m, goes into a greenhouse and ends with Swiss lakes.

The second transverse axis in the form of two wide parallel roads, passing: the first - through the Colester of Apollo, the second - through the Eastern Swimming pool of the Big Channel, - separates the forest park from the bosewood.

There is a plot of bosets between the arrived part and the road passing through the chariot of Apollo.

The trees in the bosets were planted with the right rows at the close distance in order to create a thick massif of greenery. On the borders of the bosets installed light wooden lattice (trailing) hedges - parisades, painted in dark green. Such a hedge restrained the development of plants and served as a kind of lecturer to form a smooth surface of the green wall. Its height was 2/3 width of the track. In the hedge, it was most often used by hrybro, a long time retaining the shape after a haircut. Sometimes the climbers landed the curly.

Boss in Versailles used as green halls intended for holding musical concerts, theatrical ideas, dances, games and quiet rest. In accordance with the appointment, a figurative idea and design, each boss called the name (labyrinth, a large hall, royal island).

For the bosquet part of the small park there is its forest park. Here in the center of the massif over the transverse line of the Big Channel there is a third transverse axis, which from the north is closed by the ensemble of a large trianon, from the south - Menairere.

On the left and right of the longitudinal axis of the forest massif cut the radial roads. Their rays, focused on the palace, converge in the Eastern Tip of the Big Channel. In general, in solving the Space of the Park, there is a change in its parts: the Krovitz part has a more complex working out of the details than the bosewood. As the palace is removed from the palace, the size of the planning elements, the consolidation of the drawing of their plan and simplify compositions.

As in the village, the sequence of perception of compositions, taking into account the relief, is finely thought out. Thus, on the main axis of the water parquer, only a large channel is visible, and in a few meters, the edge of the terrace, Laton opens, hurries Apollo to it and combining their green carpet strip.

The entire architectural and planning composition of Versailles is subordinated to the idea of \u200b\u200bpraising the wealth and power of the "King of Sun".

Versailles visiting routes

It is said that immediately before death in 1700, Andre Lenotr, landscape architect, the creator of Versailles gardens, visited them for the last time accompanied by the king. Although it was not known which route they will choose, Louis Xiv hoped that Lenotr last premonition of the creator will tell a new path of inspection beautiful park World. It is very possible that their visit, corresponded to the route developed by more than a decade before.

In fact, the route was necessary to visit Versailles, if you believe that Andre Felibian, the court chief with the description, explained in the description of the Versailles Castle: "There are countless objects, which, attract the look from everywhere from what is being in confusion: what way to choose. It is best to follow the instructions that I will develop in order to make everything around the most convenient and least tedious. " Versailles is not only a spatial, but also a temporary labyrinth, as the gardens and palaces were constantly in a state of construction, exposed to restructures and transformations for almost half a century. Louis Xiv perfectly aware of the importance of the course and rhythm of visits to the gardens. Therefore, in 1689, he compiled instructions, "the way to show Versailles", which he recycled in five more options, the last of which came out in 1705.

In the years when large holidays were held, the appearance of Versailles was constantly improved, in order to turn it into a fraction, corresponding to such performances as: "The pleasures of the enchanted island" (1664), "Great Royal Miselines in Versailles" (1668) and "Versailles "(1674). In a certain sense, the sequence of envelope - a walk, music, theater, lunch, ballet, salute - the route, "Rules of visits" of gardens, and scheduled the area of \u200b\u200bvisits in accordance with the practical and symbolic requirements of the holiday. However, a similar route, each time a certain event associated with a certain event could not fully respond to any daily needs, nor the pleasures received from each visit. To organize a walk, it was desirable for instructions. There were already texts offering certain routes, such as "Walking on Versailles" Madeleine Le Schuderi and "Love Cupid Psyche and Cupid" Jean de la Fontaine. But these works were inspired by the motives rather literary than practical. When the period of large holidays ended, and the courtyard finally settled in Versailles, the palace and gardens themselves began to be a spectacle. Instructions for visiting the gardens of Versailles became, the more important, as they guaranteed that the views of the king will coincide with them. Divided the aesthetic principles of Madeleine Le Schuderi, according to which "Art decorates nature", as well as the technological requirements of the brought from Cartesian metaphysics and aimed at "subordination of nature", the will of the king symbolically recorded in the aesthetics of Versailles was thus completed and secured In the route developed by them. This route, although a length of eight kilometers, included only a small part of the set of wickers, which should be examined.

It is interesting to note however that this route was resolutely neglected by the Mythological Spirit of Versailles. The radiant symbolism present everywhere did not focus on the formal side, most important for the garden. The magnificent central axis, led from the castle to the central alley and was connected to the channel with an infinitely remote and leaving in the perspective of the line leading towards the sunset. Louis XIV, can be said, tried to impose an excellent work of an exalted aesthetic experience emanating from his own taste and will. But is it different from what makes each Versaille visitor, choosing any route?

The concise and clear tone of the instructions for displaying versal gardens can be explained by numerous aspirations: to impose the only possible vision inside the extensive and complex ensemble of Versailles, balance the rhythm of the visit, which, by definition, performs the function of movement and change the perspective, to finally identify the visual experience associated with the place carrier is a very large symbolic load. Consequently, the route focuses on a fixed, formal, classic, one word "Cartesian" perception of this large, purely French garden, to the detriment of its dynamic, baroque aspect. Thus, the instructions give an apollonic vision of Versailles, in accordance with the aesthetic views of the king, often imperative and indicating, which are perceived, thanks to the method of their expression as a royal decree and as the requirements of etiquette. Nevertheless, love, phantasmagoric, ephemeral and erotic reality suits visitors at every step. Since the aesthetic logic of the French-style garden combines the geometric location of gardens with decorative ornaments, bends, ephemerality of human perception; Technological wondings of that time with the mythic and poetic symbolism. The neoclassicistic formalism of these gardens is constantly balanced, enriched and, in the end, is disturbed by the dynamism of the baroque inherent in the infinite number of possible routes.

There is also another route according to Versailles, which fits into the very structure of the gardens. Louis XIV was very proud of the water effects of his gardens, countless fountains, pools, channels and other inventions showing the game of water. It was completely reasonable pride, as the water supply in the gardens, the hydraulic system and created for this purpose, the Mechanism of Marley were innovation in a technique with the most important miracle in the world of Baroque. But despite this, the water pressure was insufficient to force all the fountains at the same time. Consequently, the route was equipped in such a way that during the king and courtiers walks, the fountains that were included in the field of their view, and turned off when they passed by, and other fountains were activated. Thus, the charm of this amazing poetry of water was limited to a technical necessity.

Probably, this route passing through fountains and pools was the best for the XVII century, reflecting the concept proposed by the king. Arts, nature and technology are united here to achieve the greatest result in the effects of illusions, charm and desires. Both routes, "Feather and Waves", and today continue to lead us when visiting Versailles.

Versailles (Versailles) - the former residence of the French kings, now the village, located near Paris. The history began with Louis XIV, which territory for hunting turned into a palace and park ensemble.

Louis Levo is the first architect, embodying the dreams of the king in reality, after the sophisticated Jules Ardouen-Mont-Sar. The latter tied workers and treasury thirty years. It was here that the entire royal court settled, it was here that numerous balls and brilliant festivals were held.

The parking area of \u200b\u200bVersailles is 101 hectares. Thanks to the whole system of channels, the village is called "Little Venice". On the territory housed a huge number watching sites, Alley, Promenade.

How to get to Versailles

You can get to Versailles from three stations.

From Station Saint-Lazar (Gare De Paris-Saint-Lazare):

• By train L List to Gare De Viroflay Rive Droite, by bus №171 from Gabriel Peri Metro Station to Castle. It will be necessary to go through on foot will be a small distance, about 500 meters. The right time on the way about 1 hour.
• By train on Line L to Versailles - Rive Droite Station. The station is removed from the castle by almost 2 km, which will need to be walking. Total time on the way will be about 1 hour.

From the station Austerlitz (Gare d'Austerlitz):

• On the suburban train RER C can be reached by Gare De Versailles Château Rive Gauche, which is 950 meters removed from Versailles. This distance will need to go on foot.
  Total time on the way will be about 1 hour.

From the North Station (Gare Du Nord)

• First on electric train RER. B You need to drive two stops station to Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame, after which transfer to RER C and go to Gare De Versailles Château Rive Gauche
  Upon arrival at the station, you will need to go through about 1 km to the park area. Total time on the way to make a little over 1 hour.

Versailles can be driving on a travel day, day-distance (1-5 zone), and (1-5 zones) is also suitable.

Disposable ticket will cost 7.60 euros.

• (Price: 70.00 €, 4 hours)
• (Price: 57.00 €, 4 hours)

Accommodation in Versaille

The territory of Versailles is incredibly huge, there really is something to see, so it's not always enough one day to get around everything and enjoy a walk. To enjoy a visit to the palace and park complex, pay at least two days for a leisurely walk, without fuss. We offer to your attention hotels at the best prices in Versailles.

Sights of Versailles

Many versals are associated only with the castle of the same name. It is worth knowing that Versailles is a large complex of buildings, you can say the town in which all the royal needs were provided.

Great Trianon (Grand Trianon)

it royal Palace in Versaille. The name got the palace to the inheritance from the ancient village of Trianon, which was previously located on this territory. Here Louis XIV rested from court life with Madame Menenon. The construction of a big trianone lasted for 4 years (1687-1691) under the leadership of Jules Arduen-Mansar, and the Louis himself independently developed most of the architectural solutions. This appeared decorated with balustrade and huge architecture windows decorated with a marble of gentle pink color.

The palace is two wings, connected by the gallery - peristyle, which was developed by Robert de Cott. The facade of a big trianon goes to a big courtyard. In this part of the building peristil is made in the form of an exquisite arcade. Behind the Palace is a park with lawns, fountains, water bodies and floral compositions. From this side, the peristil is made, in the form of double marble columns. DVORTER-PARK complex a large trianon takes 23 hectares and is open to visiting tourists.

Versailles Palace (Château de Versailles)

This is not just the main attraction of the palace-park complex, but M Symbol of the whole era in the history of the French monarchy, and one of the most ambitious in all respects. Initially, the land in this part of Paris's suburbs climbed the king Louis III, but the idea of \u200b\u200bbuilding the Versailles Palace belongs to him Son - Louis XIV. Later, his grandson - Louis XV.Dvorets introduced his submissions to the image of the palace complex. Demonstrates the world's power of absolute power. For the construction of the palace and the garden complex, 800 hectares of swamps was dried. Construction lasted for more than half a century by the forces of peasants and the national army; The cost of the palace in recalculation to modern currency cost hundreds of billions of euros. The interior decoration blinds the abundance of luxury and unique works of art - frescoes and paintings, wood carving, sculptures from marble, handmade silk carpets, a lot of gold, crystal and mirrors. The magnificence of the Versailles Palace Complex made a strong impression on Peter I, that after his visit, the king conceived the construction of the famous ensemble in Peterhof.

Versailles Palace

When the monarchy fell, the bourgeoisie came to power, and the crown accepted the revolutionary duke of Orleans, Louis-Philipp Versailles, in 1830, changed his status and became a museum, with time, - Musée de L'Histoire de France. The revolutionary period did not mean the best way in the state of the Versailles Palace. Many premises were launched, and even destroyed, and the furniture and works of art were looted. The leading work began immediately after the revolution, according to the delegation of Louis Philippe. Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte was also concerned about the fate of the building and regularly allocated funds for his repairs. Plugged, a mirror hall and luxurious gold panels were restored, it was possible to return the part of the stolen works of art, some of the webs and interior items had to create a new way. Versailles continue - large-scale The reconstruction of the palace, which began in 1952 and lasted for almost 30 years, did not solve all the problems. Therefore, in 2003, the French authorities announced the beginning of the 17-year restoration of Versailles. Now, the initial layout of Versailles gardens is fully restored, and in the inner marble courtyard, the royal lattice again shone in gold.

Versailles Park (Parc de Versailles)

Unique landscape compositions that are considered almost the most exquisite in the world. In 1661, parallelly with the construction of the palace, King Louis XIV instructed the landscape architect Andre Lenotra to create such a park, which would not only harmonize with the greatness of the royal buildings, but also exceeded the level of luxury all the famous parks. Building a Versailles Park took over 40 years, but The resulting outcome of the monarch was satisfied - the exciting spirit of the panorama was opened immediately when leaving the palace through the marble courtyard.

Versailal Park Versailles

After the Great French Revolution in the Versailles Palace, it was decided to open a museum, and since then walks through the picturesque alleys royal Park Available to all tourists.

Ball Room (Salle Du Jeu De Paume)

From an architectural point of view, nothing is particularly noteworthy, although it is built next to the Versailles Palace in 1686. It is possible that in the annals of history, this room would remain as a place where royal sports activities were held. But fate ordered differently ... Life at the courtyard of the French kings of the XVII century was described by contemporaries, like endless techniques with a series of entertainment events. Such a pastime implied not only balls and enchanting ideas, but also sports.

Famous to the world, the King Sun loved the game to the ball, - a peculiar analogue of a large tennis of that time. Courtful actively supported their monarch in this hobby, therefore, the ballroom was a fairly popular place. However, worldwide fame The ball of the ball received a completely different occasion - in this room in 1789 representatives of French citizens, under the leadership of Jean Bayy, They brought a solemn oath, maintain their union to create the Constitution of the Kingdom.

Today, there is a museum in the room of the hall for games, the exposition of which tells about the historical event, which is approaching the French revolution: the sculpture of the protruding Jean Bayei, the busts of deputies and a huge cloth, depicting the constituent assembly at the time of pronouncing the oath.

Small Trianon (Petit Trianon)

Modern historians believe that the Palace was built by Louis XV for Marquis de Pompadur as a sign of the favor of the monarch. The Palace project was developed by Anzh Jacques Gabriel, the court architect, a supporter of classicism. Construction lasted for about 6 years and ended in 1768. The building turned out to be small, simple, architecturally aged - without coupling decor inherent in the architecture of the first half of the XVIII century, but the inner decoration of the small trianone is made in the style of Rococo.

The two-story palace looks very elegant - classic french windows, pilasters and Italian balustrade at the top, Corinth columns and a wide stone terrace - at the base.

Today, a small trianon is a museum dedicated to the Queen of Mary Antoinette. Its exposition presents painting XVIII century, as well as furniture and interior items that restore the situation characteristic of that era.

Municipal Museum Lambin (Musée Lambinet)

Dedicated to the history of the city, located near the Versailles Palace, built in 1750. The project of a three-story building, developed by Eli Blanshir, provided for all the style features characteristic of that time - French windows, small balconies with patterned grilles and a crown of the facade, a classic fronon with a sculptural composition Allegoric topics.

In 1852, the mansion becomes the property of Viktor Lambin, the descendants of which 80 years later, gave the building to the city for organizing the museum. Today, the exposition of the Museum Lambin presents three directions - the history of the city, captured in documents of different eras, the collection of objects of art of the XVI-XX centuries and the reconstruction of the interiors of the XVIII century , furniture, sculptures and many interior items, - gilded clock and candelabra, dishes, crystal lamps and vases borrowed atmosphere, returning visitors to the atmosphere of the XVIII century.

Former royal hospital (Ancien Hôpital Royal de Versailles)

Also known as the Hôpital Richaud Hospital (Hôpital Richaud) is not far from the local railway station; Recently received the status of a historical monument relatively recently - in 1980. In the years of Louis XIII, there was a need for a social character - in 1636 a small aldron was built, which existed on rather modest funds received from the charity communities. Print Louis XV Laddle was converted to the Royal Hospital, Funded treasury. Hospital premises were rebuilt and significantly expanded on the order of Louis XVI.

The project of the new building, made by the architect Chall-Francois-d'Armenian, provided 3 corps: in the central part of the building, the elderly, and in two sidelines, are patients. In addition, the church adjacent to the housings, near the hospital, erected near the hospital so that the patients could get to the church service, without leaving the street. It was the level of service in the hospital - excellent living conditions, good food and multiple cleaning. In the quality of the hospital, The building existed until recently, and then part of it was sold to a transport enterprise.

Cathedral of St. Louis (Cathédrale Saint-Louis)

It was originally conceived as the usual parish church.

Nevertheless, in 1684, when after the destruction of the Church of St. Julian Briudsky, south part Versailles remained without a church building, built in her place the chapel had to give, albeit temporary, but the status of the parish church. And since, together with the status, the name and the name is the church of St. Louis, it was decided to build a real church, worthy of wearing the name of the Angel of Vental Monarchs. In 1742, the project of the future cathedral was approved by Louis XV and construction began. It is curious that the original architect Jacques Arden Mansar turned out to be the author of the project, the grandson of Julia Mansar, "invented", at one time, the Versailles Palace.

The construction stretched long and ended, 12 years later. The king was not present at the inauguration of the New Church, - on the eve of August 23, 1754, his Majesty was born a heir, the future king of Louis XVI. But later, a year later, the monarch compensated for a lack of attention, giving the church of 6 bells with the names of the royal heiress. The big body appeared in the Versailles Cathedral in 1761, and, too, thanks to the grace of King, Louis personally controlled the manufacturer of the tool with the best master of that time Francois Henri Kliko. True, the status of the Cathedral Church of St. Louis received much later, - in 1843. Today Versailles Cathedral is not only a place for regular Catholic Mesa, but also a kind of concert area for modern chamber music performers.

Lyceum Gosha (Lycée Hoche)

Acting educational institution, located in the historic building of Versailles.

The building, in the walls of which subsequently, was located the Lyceum Gosh, was built by the project of Rishar Mika, a personal royal architect and a large fan of neoclassicism. Ursulong Monastery (Couvent de La Reine), founded in 1766, was called upon to fulfill a very important mission - to give acceptable education to girls whose parents served at the Royal Yard. For 20 years, the monastery, supervised by the queen, enjoyed great success, for this period, hundreds of girls received excellent education. But in 1789, after the departure of the royal family from Versailles, and the monastery, and his activities are gradually declining, and after the French Revolution and changes the profile at all and turns into a military hospital.

About successful in matters of education and education of reputation former monastery, Versaly's authorities recalled in 1802, when the issue of teaching children from rich families was acute. A year later, a secondary school opens in the building. And some time later, the reconstruction of his premises begins, at the end of which in 1888 the new French Lyceum was opened, who received the name Gosha, in honor of Gosher Gosha's Born in Versaille. Gosha. Lisa successfully functions to this day. And among his graduates there are many celebrities, including the former president of France Jacques Chirac.

Foreign Des Affares Etrangères Mansion (Hôtel Des affaires

It is allocated among the historic buildings of Versailles not only as the subject of architectural art, but also as a room where the negotiations were held, thanks to which the Versailles and Paris Treaty were signed. So an end was the end of the war for the independence of the colonies of the United States of 1783. The task for the construction of the mansion was received in 1761 from Foreign Minister of Foreign Affairs during the reign of Louis XV, Francois Shuazel. The main part of the building was planned to use as a storage room for the archive, and in the rest of the premises it was convenient to place the auxiliary services of the ministry. The development of the project was commissioned Jean-Batista Bertier, - the architect he wondered the king.

And as it turned out, not in vain, the four-storey building of the brick and stone mansion has a very representative view not only outside, but also inside. The facade of the building, according to the style of that time, is decorated with pilasters with an ornament in the form of monarchism symbols, the top of which is crowned statues depicting war and peace. The entrance to the building is an impressive size of the door with a rich-plated decor. Interestable, the decoration was partially preserved in the original form - the first floor gallery with its wooden panels and gold trim, archival cabinets built into the walls. Now the municipal library is located here, some of whose books is still remembered by the Versailles Palace and its first owners - kings.

Church of Our Lady (Eglise Notre-Dame)

It is towering next to the Versailles Palace. It was here that the newborn heirs of the king were baptized, and they were crowned or spent on the last path of the relatives of the monarch. The ability to have the opportunity to visit the church in the affordable proximity arose from Louis Xiv in parallel with moving to the Versailles Palace. Being a Yarym adherent of Catholicism, the king first of all took care of his spiritual shelter.

The creation of the project Louis was instructed by his trusted architect Julia Arden-Mansar, and in 1684 the construction of the church began. For 2 years, the Versailles Church of the Virgin Mary was completely built.

Judging by the records of the church-parish book, representatives of the monarchical dynasty visited the church regularly. With the point of view of architects, the Church of Our Lady - the bright embodiment of the traditions of French classicism, from the point of view of parishioners and tourists visiting the Church, is a little massive, but surprisingly beautiful and harmonious Two-tier building. And under the church, the church with a symbolic image of angels holding over the sun, the royal crown is located, the gilded arrows of which also rhythmically count the time, as in Louis XIV.

Castle Madame Elizabeth (Château du Domaine de Montreuil)

That was the name of his last mistress - Elizabeth French, the granddaughter of Louis XV and the sister of the last French monarch. The printed story of the life of Princess Elizabeth, causes a special attitude towards everything he was surrounded, and Montreus's estate - and the estate of Montreus dates back to the XII century. At first, it was a fortress, then, at the order of Karl VI, - the monastery of the celestines. Starting a century, the estate was part of Versailles, - Louis XVI acquired it to give his beloved younger sister. Then these lands, an area of \u200b\u200b8 hectares, and received their new name - the estate Madame Elizabeth.

The castle in which the princess spent most of his life, is not distinguished by the originality of architectural solutions, nor the wealth of exterior. Visually, the building can be divided into three parts - two symmetrical three-storey buildings connected by a two-level pavilion. But for Elizabeth, the exterior decoration did not play a special role - she sincerely took care of people and even opened a special room in the palace, in which the doctor took the poor to provide them The necessary help. When the French revolution began, the patriotic-tuned Elizabeth did not want to leave the country and the people close to her, and divided the fate of the royal family sentenced to execution.

Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville)

It appeared in Versailles only in the XVIII century, when orders were stopped from the Versailles Palace, regarding the lifestyle of the citizens of Li.V. 1670 for French Marshal Bernarden, a mansion was built. In fact, this is a building to which in the future was to be the building of the city administration of Versailles, was the most real palace, the main entrance of which, according to etiquette, was facing the royal palace. It seems that when the opportunity has introduced, Louis XIV immediately acquired this mansion for his The extramarital daughter Princess de Conti. From this point on, in the palace mansion, it became a tradition to arrange lush techniques, balls and simply, any festivals. This continued, even after a new owner came to replace the princess, Louis XV nephew, Louis IV Heinrich, more famous, like the Duke of Bourbon-Konde. But the French Revolution, as a hurricane swept around the country, destroying not only the old political systemBut many associated with it buildings. Continued, in the number of disadvantaged and the mansion of Continations, in which the modern local administration of Versailles now fulfills its duties, although it was built in the same place - is, just, the stylization of the era of Louis XIII. But this is the first real Town Hall of Versailles.

Montanxier Theater (Théâtre Montansier)

It was built on the initiative of the Queen Mary Antoinette and with the complete approval of the King of Louis XV. However, the authorship of the idea of \u200b\u200bcreating a new theater hall of France belongs to a talented actress Madame Montancé. The moment of Madame Madannakye was not to get acquainted with the French Queen, it was not the most successful: either her ideas did not find a response, or the successes did not give peace to competitors. Nevertheless, Madame Montancass persistently looking for the possibility of incarnation of his dream - the creation of the theater, not similar to those already known. Thanks to the courtyards at the court, Madame Montarcé has achieved a reception at the queen and could awaken in her interest in his plan.

The new theater opened in November 1777 in Versaille, next to the Royal Palace. At the solemn ceremony, there was not only Maria Antoinette, but also the King of Louis XV himself, who was satisfied with the visit of the theater. The very impression on the king and the queen produced a semicircular shape of the scene, excellent acoustics, realistic scenery and the use of mechanisms that at that time was regarded as innovation. It remains unnoticed and finishing the hall, "thanks to a gentle-blue interior background, the gold-plated decor elements looked very solemnly. And the possibility of direct exit from the theater right to the royal palace finally placed the king to the theater.

Today, the theater of Montannacies is an officially registered institution, as well as an officially recognized historical monument.

Tickets to Versailles

There are several types of tickets: passports for one or two days, as well as tickets for visiting individual attractions.

One day ticket: 20 euros
Two days ticket: 25 euros
Ticket for one day with a visit to the music gardens (April-October): 27 Euro
Ticket for two days with visiting music gardens (April-October): 30 euros
Ticket to Versailles Palace: 18 Euro
Ticket to Large and Small Tranon: 12 Euro

How to get

Address: PLACE D "Armes, Paris 78000
Website: chateauversailles.fr.
Rer train: Versailles - Château.
Updated: 04/03/2019

And in general, in the Palaces of France, we cannot not look into the most prominent famous palace-park complex of France. Let him know everyone, you heard a lot about him, but let's still look back and go there for a couple of minutes.

Versailles - This name is associated worldwide with the idea of \u200b\u200bthe most significant and magnificent palace, erected by the will of one monarch. Versailling Palace and Park Ensemble, a recognized masterpiece of world heritage, is young enough - he is only three and a half century. Palace and Park of Versailles - one of the outstanding architectural ensembles In the history of world architecture. The planning of the extensive park, the territory associated with the Versailles Palace is the top of French park art, and the palace itself is a first-class architectural monument. The pleiad of brilliant masters worked on this ensemble. They created a complex, complete architectural complex, which includes the monumental building of the palace and a number of parking structures of "small forms", and, the main thing, the most exclusive park in its compositional integrity.

The Versailles ensemble is a highly characteristic and vivid product of the French classicism of the XVII century. The palace-park ensemble of Versailles is the greatest monument of architecture of the XVII century, which has influenced the urban idea of \u200b\u200bthe XVIII century. Versailles generally became a "ideal city", about which the authors of the Renaissance and the will of Louis XIV, the "Sun King", and the art of His architects and gardeners turned out to be implemented at the art of his architects and gardeners, and in close proximity to Paris. But let's get about everything ...

The mention of Versailles first appeared in the Charter of 1038, issued by the Abbey of St. Peter. It said about some Senory Goggo Versailles - the owner of a small castle and the territories adjacent to it. The emergence of the first settlement - Little trees around the castle - usually dates the middle of the 11th century. Another village soon grew around the Church of St. Julian.

13th century (especially the years of the reign of Holy Louis) for Versailles, as well as for the whole Northern France, became a century of well-being. However, the 14th century followed by the 14th century brought a terrible epidemic of plague and centenary war between England and France. All these attacks brought Versailles in a very poor condition: by the end of the 14th century, the number of its population has numbered a little more than 100 people. He began to change only in the next 15th century.

Versailles as an architectural and park ensemble did not immediately, he was not created by one architect like many palaces of the XVII-XVIII centuries, to him. At the end of the XVI century Versailles was a small village in the forest, where sometimes hunted Heinrich IV.. Vintage chronicles report that at the beginning of the 18th century Versailles was a village with a population of about 500 people, the mill was smoked at the place of the future palace, and the fields and endless swamps were spread around. In 1624 was built on behalf of Louis XIII., Architect Filisher Le Roa Little hunting castle next to a village called Versailles.

Near her there was a medieval dilapidated castle - possession of the house of Gondi. Saint-Simon in his memoirs calls this ancient Versailles Castle "Card Domich". But soon, this castle was rebuilt with the architect Lemercia by order of the king. At the same time, Louis XIII acquired a plot of Gondi along with the dilapidated palace of the Archbishop and demolished him to expand his park. A small castle was 17 kilometers from Paris. It was a P-shaped structure with a moat. Before the lock, four hulls made of stone and bricks with metal gratings on the balconies were located. The yard of the old castle, which later, after the name of the marble, was preserved until today. The first gardens of the Versailles Park were broken by Jacques Bousso and Jacques de Menuar.

In the middle of the 16th century, Marcial De Breesman became the only Versailles senior - Minister of Finance at King Charlem IX. Karl gave him the right to hold four annual fairs in the versal and opening a weekly market (on Thursdays). The population of Versailles, which was still a small village, was about 500 people at this time. However, French religious wars between the Catholics and Protestants led to the emergency change of the senorial dynasty. Marcial was arrested for his sympathy for Huguenots (French Protestants) and was thrown into the dungeon. Here he was visited by the Duke of De Retz, Albert De Gondi, who had long tried plans for the seizure of Versailles. By threats, he forced de breakage to sign the paper, according to which the latter was inferior to him Versailles on a negligible price.

At the beginning of the 17th century, King Louis XIII, which gave great pleasure to hunt in the local forests to Versailles. In 1623, he commanded to build a small castle, where the hunters could stop at the halt. This building has become the first royal palace in Versailles. On April 8, 1632, Louis XIII completely bought Senoria from the last Versailles owner Jean-Francois de Gondi for 66,000 livres. In the same year, the king appointed his chamelner Arno Managing Versailles. In 1634, Architect Filibra Le Roy was instructed to rebuild the old Versailles castle in the Royal Palace. However, despite the changes that occurred, by the end of the board of Louis XIII Versailles did not strongly changed its appearance. He, as before, was a small village.

Everything has changed with the wearing to the throne of the king - the Sun, Louis XIV. It was during the reign of this monarch (1643-1715) Versailles turned into a city and a favorite royal residence.

In 1662, Versailles began to be built according to the Lenotra plan. Andre Lenotr (1613-1700) By this time, he was already famous as a builder of country estates with regular parks (in W-le-Viscount, CO, Saint-Clock, etc.). Interestingly, in 1655-1661 N. Fuki, the largest financier of absolutist France, on the architect project Louis Le V. Rebuilt his country castle. The main thing in the palace-park ensemble, the palace himself was not even a palace himself (at that time, quite modest), but the general principle of creating a country residence. The whole she was turned into a gigantic park, skillfully arranged by architect-gardener Andre Lenotrom. The palace of the Lie Viscount demonstrated a new style of life of the French aristocrat - in nature, outside the walls of a close, crowned city. Palace and park liked so much Louis Xiv.that he could not accept the idea that they were not his property. The French king immediately sharpened a fuce in prison, and architects Louis Le in and Andre Lenotra instructed the construction of his palace in Versailles. The architecture of the Fuke estate was adopted as a sample for Versailles. Saving the Palace of Fuce, the king took out everything from him that it was possible to remove and take away, right up to orange trees and marble statues of the park.

Lenotr began with the construction of the city, in which the court Louis XIV should be accommodated and the numerous state of the palace servants and military security. The city was designed for thirty thousand inhabitants. His layout was subordinate to three radiation highways, which diverged from the central part of the palace in three directions: in CO, Saint-Klov, Paris. Despite the direct analogy with the Roman trilaution, the Versailles composition was significantly different from its Italian prototype. In Rome, the streets were diverged from Del Popolo Square, in Versailles they rapidly converged to the palace. In Rome, the width of the streets was less than thirty meters, in Versailles - about a hundred. In Rome, the angle formed between the three highways was equal to 24 degrees, and in Versailles 30 degrees. For the speedy population of the city Louis Xiv. Delvated the plots to the development of everyone (of course, nobles) for a similar price with the only condition to build buildings in a single style and not higher than 18.5 meters, that is, the level of entrance to the palace.

In 1673, it was decided to demolish the old Versailles buildings, including the Church. The new Cathedral of St. Julian was erected in her place in 1681-1682. On May 6, 1682, Louis XIV, together with all his yard, moved from Paris to Versailles. It became a turning point in the history of the city. By the first quarter of the 18th century (that is, by the end of the board of Louis), Versailles turned into a luxurious royal residence, and the number of its population was 30,000 inhabitants.

As a result of the second construction cycle, Versailles developed in a holistic palace-park ensemble, which is a wonderful example of the synthesis of arts - architecture, sculptures, and gardening art of French classicism XVII century. However, after the death of the Cardinal Mazarini, Versailles created by the left, began to seem not sufficiently majestic to express the idea of \u200b\u200bthe absolute monarchy. Therefore, to restructure Versailles was invited Jules Arden Mansar, The largest architect of the end of the century, with the name of which is associated with the third construction period in the history of the creation of this complex, the grand-nephew of the famous Francois Manzar. Narzar even more increased the palace, erecting two wings for five hundred meters long each at right angles to the southern and northern facades of the palace. In the northern wing, he placed the church (1699-1710), the lobby of which ended Robert de Cott. In addition, Manzar was toured over the terrace left two more floors, creating a mirror gallery along the western facade, the closes of the halls of war and the world (1680-1886).

ADAM FRANS VAN DER MEULEN - CONSTRUCTION OF THE CHÂTEAU DE VERSAILLES

On the axis of the palace in the direction of the entrance in the second floor, the Mansar placed the royal bedroom overlooking the city and the horse's equestrian statue, set later at the destination point of the trezble road of Versailles. In the northern part of the palace there were chambers of the king, in the South Queen. Mansard also built two ministerial buildings (1671-1681), which formed the third, the so-called "courtyard of ministers", and connected these hulls with a gilded lattice. All this completely changed the appearance of the structure, although Mensar left the same height of the building. Contrasts were gone, freedom of fantasy, nothing left, except for the extended horizontal of a three-story building, one in some kind of facades with the basement, front and attic floors. The impression of the grandinality that this brilliant architecture produces is achieved by a large scale of the whole, simple and calm rhythm of the whole composition.

Clichable

Mansar knew how to combine various elements into a single artistic integer. He possessed an amazing sense of the ensemble, striving for rigor in the decoration. For example, in the mirror gallery, he applied a single architectural motive - uniform alternation of simpleness with openings. Such a classic basis creates a sense of clear form. Thanks to the mansar, the expansion of the Versailles Palace was proposed by laws. An extension received a strong relationship with central buildings. The ensemble, outstanding in architecturally and artistic qualities, was successfully completed and had a great influence on the development of world architecture.

Each of the inhabitants of the Versailles Palace left his mark in his architecture and decoration. Louis XV., Louis Louis XIV, who inherited the throne in 1715, only by the end of the reign in 1770 decided to make changes to the architecture of the palace. He ordered to equip individual apartments to protect his life from the court etiquette. In turn, Louis XV inherited from the great-grandfather love for arts, as evidenced by the decoration of his inner chambers; And the tendency towards secret political intrigues crossed him from the Italian ancestors of the genus of the Medici and the Savoy Dynasty. It was in the inner offices, away from a curious courtyard, the one whom was called the "universal favorite," accepted some of the most important state decisions. At the same time, the king did not neglect the etiquette identified by its predecessor, nor the life of the family, about which he was reminded of the Queen and especially hot daughter-loved by him.

After the death of the Sun king, Philip Orleans, who became a regent at the young Louis XV, decided to move the French courtyard back to Paris. It became a noticeable blow to Versailles, which immediately lost about half of its inhabitants. However, everything returned to the previous state, when in 1722 a crowned Louis XV moved again to Versailles. With his successor to Louis XVI, the city had to survive a lot of dramatic moments. By the whims of fate, this luxurious royal residence had to become the cradle of the Great French Revolution. It was here that in 1789 the general states gathered, and here on June 20, 1789, deputies from the third class were brought by a solemn oath not to disperse until their requirements for political transformations in France. In early October 1789, a crowd of heated revolutionaries arrived from Paris from Paris, who, who capturing the palace, forced the royal family to return to the capital. After that, Versailles again began to rapidly lose the population: his number declined from 50,000 people (in 1789) to 28,000 people (in 1824). During the revolutionary events from the Versailles Palace, almost all furniture and values \u200b\u200bwas carried out, but the building itself was not destroyed. During the reign of the directory in the palace, restoration work was carried out, after which the museum was located here.

Louis XVI., Heir to Louis XV, whose board was tragically interrupted by the revolution, inherited from his grandfather from his mother, the Polish king of Augustus Saxon, enviable hedgehogs; On the other hand, his ancestors-Bourbon handed him not only a true passion for the hunt, but also a deep interest in the sciences. His wife Maria Antoinette, daughter of the Duke of Lotaringsky, who later became the emperor Austria, left a deep mark in the musical life of Versailles thanks to his love for music inherited from both the Austrian Habsburgs and Louis XIII. Unlike his ancestors, Louis XVI did not have ambitions of the king - creator. The famous simplicity of tastes he lived in the palace as needed. With its board, the inner decoration of the palace was updated, and, above all, the small rooms of the queen, which were located in parallel with his greater chambers. During the revolution, all the furniture and decorations of the palace were cleared. Napoleon, and then Louis XVIII conducted restoration work in Versaille. After the July revolution of 1830, the palace was supposed to demolish. This question was brought to a vote in the ward of deputies. The advantage in one voice saved Versailles. The last of the dynasty, King Louis-Philipp Rules France from 1830 to 1848. In 1830, after the July Revolution, which arose him to the throne, the House of Representatives adopted the law on which Versailles and Trianon moved to the possession of the new king. Without losing time, Louis Philippe ordered to create a museum in Versailles in honor of the glorious victories of France, which opened on June 1, 1837. This appointment of the castle has been preserved today.

The creators of the palace were not alone Louis Le Ba and Mansar. Under their leadership, a significant group of architects worked. With Lemiu, Dorba, Pierre Gittar, Bruyan, Pierre Cottle and Blondez. The main assistant of Manzar was his student and a relative Robert de Cott, who continued to lead the construction after the death of Mansar in 1708. In addition, Charles Davie and Lassuyrans worked in Versailles. The interiors were made in the drawings of Beren, Vigano, as well as Lebedron and Minyar. Due to the participation of many masters, the architecture of Versailles is currently generic in nature, especially since the construction of Versailles - from the occurrence of Hunting Castle of Louis XIII and to the device of the Batal Gallery Louis Philippe - continued for about two centuries (1624-1830).

During the Napoleonic wars, Versailles were captured twice with Prussian troops (in 1814 and in 1815). The invasion of Prussians repeated once again during the Franco-Prussian war of 1870-1871. The occupation lasted 174 days. In the Versailles Palace elected by the Prussian King Wilhelm I as a temporary residence, on January 18, 1871, the creation of the German Empire was announced.

In the 20th century, Versailles were also more transmitted to witness the largest international events. It was here that in 1919 a peace treaty was signed, who set the point in the First World War and placed the beginning of the Versailles system of international relations.

Main Palace ComplexChateau de Versailles) was built in the 17th century by King Louis XIV, who wanted to move here from unsafe Paris. Luxury rooms are richly decorated with marble, velvet and wooden carvings. The main attractions are here - the royal chapel, the Salon of Venus, the Salon of Apolona and the hall of the mirror. The design of the parade halls was devoted to the Greek gods. Apollo Salon was originally the throne hall of Louis. The mirror hall contains 17 huge mirrors reflecting high arched windows and crystal chandeliers.

Big Tranony - The wonderful Palace of Pink Marble was built by Louis XIV for his beloved Madame de Madhenon. Here the monarch loved to spend his free time. Later the palace was home to Napoleon and his second wife.

Small trianone- Another love nest, built by King Louis XV for Madame de Pompadur. Later, the small trianon occupied Maria Antoinette, and even later, Napoleon's sister. Located near the Temple of Love, they say, was loved by Maria Antoinette to hold dick evenings.

Colonnade - The circle of marble columns and arches, located in the garden, continues the theme of the Gods of Olympus. The place was a favorite dining king outdoors.

During World War II, Versailles was occupied by German troops. In addition, the city had to survive several cruel bombings, the victims of which were 300 Versailles. The liberation of Versailles took place on August 24, 1944, and was carried out by French troops under the command of General Legalla.

On February 25, 1965, a government decree was released, according to which Versailles had to be turned into a prefecture of the new Department of Ivelev, the official creation of which occurred on January 1, 1968.

To date, the city retains this status. Being one of the most attractive tourist places, Versailles are rightly proud of its history and architectural monuments. In 1979, the Palace and the park of Versailles were officially included in the list of worldwide cultural heritage UNESCO.

Pierre-Denis Martin - View of Versailles

Gardens Versalya With their sculptures, fountains, pools, cascades and grottoes soon became for Paris nobility of the arena of the brilliant court festivals and baroque fun, during which it was possible to enjoy the Operators of Lully, and the plays of Racina and Moliere.

Parks Versailles Discussed on the square in 101 hectares. There are many viewing sites, alleys and promenade, there is even their big channel, or rather, a whole system of channels, which was called "Little Venice". The Versailles Palace itself also affects its size: the length of his park facade is 640 meters, located in the center The Mirror Gallery has 73 meters in length.

Versailles are open to visitors

in May - September from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 to 17:30.
fountains work on Saturdays from July 1 to September 30 and on Sundays from the beginning of April to the beginning of October.

How to get there - Versailles

Trains (train) from the station "Gare Montparnasse", Montparnasse Bienvenue metro station (12th Metro Line) are coming to Versailles. Entrance to the station immediately from the subway. Follow the versailles chantiers stop. Time is 20 minutes away. The cost of a ticket for both end is 5.00 euros.

Exit from the station in the direction of "Sortie", then follow directly. The road will lead you to the palace after 10 - 15 minutes.

Chateau de Versailles or the Versailles Palace is recognized as the largest historical museum of the world.

The Palace is included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. Most open to visit tourists.

Before the construction of an architectural masterpiece, Versailles was considered a village. In the real days, Versailles is a suburb of Paris, where tourists come from different countries. In 1623, Louis XIII built a hunting castle in the village of Versailles. The castle was intended for rest. A small building in the form of a hunting castle was the basis for the construction of the most expensive and extravagant building in the world.

The construction of the palace began Louis XIV in 1661. The actions of the king caused some contradictions among the starving people, ministers, but no one dreamed of expressing his discontent in open. The construction of Louis Le Wau and Jules Arduen took part in the construction. The construction of the gardens was carried out on the project Andre Le Notre. About the inner interior and park sculptures Called Charles Lebrins. Under the construction, construction of gardens, tracks, fountains was cleared a huge area in 14970 hectares.

There are 1400 fountains throughout the palace, as well as 400 stunning sculptures. More than 36,000 workers participated in construction. After completing the construction of Chateau de Versailles, it could accommodate up to 5,000 people. However, despite the amount of funds, and this is more than 250 billion euros (according to modern standards), the palace has some drawbacks. In it, it was possible to live only in the summer, in the winter period, the accommodation in it was impossible, because There was no heating, most of Fireplaces have not been operated.

The construction of the Versailles Palace was finally completed by the end of the life of Louis XIV. He was the residence of the royal family from 1682 to 1789.

The greatness of the Versailles Palace shows how powerful and the monarch was rich. King's apartments were located in the center of the palace, which symbolized the absolute power of the monarch. The king-sun was confident that God himself chose him by the ruler of France.

It is worth noting that Peter the Great as a guest had the opportunity to stay in the Versailles Palace in 1717. The magnificence of structures and gardens led Peter I delight. Upon returning to Russia, Peter Great took over some ideas that were applied in the construction of the Peterhof Palace.

During the war, a significant part of the buildings were injured. But, despite the shaky financial situation in the kingdom, Louis XVI allocated some of the funds for the restoration of the palace and gardens. In 1760, most of the damage was renovated.

After the fall of the monarchy, the Versailles Palace fell into the hands of the new government. As a result, in 1792, part of the furniture and other luxury items was sold, and works of art were transferred to the museum, namely in Louvre.

Among the architectural structures of the palace complex, a small and large trianon is distinguished.

A large trianon was built in 1687 by order of Louis XIV. Now the big trianon is used by the President of France to take important guests.

Small trianon was built from 1762 to 1768. In the small trianone there lived Lyudovik XV Madame de Pompadur. Later, in 1774, Louis XVI gave the building of the queen Mary Antoinette.

The masterpiece of the Versailles Palace is a mirror hall, the area of \u200b\u200bwhich is 73 meters. Of the 17 windows of the mirror hall, a delightful view of the park opens. The hall received its name due to the presence of seventeen arches with mirrors. An important events and celebrations were held in the hall.

In general, the internal design is distinguished by luxury. Everywhere you can observe the carving of wood and stone, painted ceilings, expensive furniture, the walls are decorated with numerous paintings of famous artists.

Versailles Park deserves special attention. On the construction of the park took 10 years. Versailles Park is an excellent example of French garden design. Flowers and alleys are made in strict symmetry.

Trees had strict geometric shapes. Crowns were formed in the form of balls, pyramids, squares.

Flowers always fragrant. As soon as the flowers faded them, they were replaced with new ones. Trees and other plants brought from all the provinces of France. Thousands of people participated in the creation of a garden.

Deserves attention, and a large channel whose length is 1670 meters. Channel creation work lasted 11 years. The channel was created under the leadership of Andre Le Notre. The big canal was a place for numerous water spectacles during the reign of Louis XIV. Currently, anyone can ride a boat on the canal at the Versailles Palace.