Château de Versailles

The Château de Versailles, located in the town of Versailles just outside of Paris, is one of the most famous and visited palaces in the world. Originally built as a hunting lodge for King Louis XIII, it was transformed by his son, Louis XIV, into a lavish palace that symbolized his power and prestige.

The palace is known for its opulent decoration, including intricate gilding, elaborate frescoes, and ornate furniture. The Hall of Mirrors, a long gallery lined with mirrors and windows, is perhaps the most famous room in the palace and has hosted many important events throughout history.

The palace also includes extensive gardens, featuring manicured lawns, formal gardens, and fountains. The gardens are open to the public and visitors can stroll through them, enjoying the many sculptures and water features.

In addition to the palace and gardens, there are several other buildings on the grounds of the Château de Versailles, including the Grand Trianon, a smaller palace built for Louis XIV as a retreat from court life, and the Petit Trianon, a small palace that was later given to Marie Antoinette.

Today, the Château de Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors from around the world each year. It is also used for important state events, such as the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919 that ended World War I.