Château de Versailles
HOW MANY WAYS CAN YOU SAY 'OPULENT'?
A detail of the golden gates outside the Palace of Versailles' central courtyard The entire fence was torn down and melted during the French Revolution but eventually recreated more than 200 years later.
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From the gold-leaf fence, royal gates, and dormer windows, to the brilliant crystal chandeliers, the sparkling hall of mirrors, and luxurious canopied beds, the Palace of Versailles was built to impress. Every room was bigger, better, bolder than the last; every surface meticulously adorned with paint, pattern, or patina. As we walked from room to room it was hard for me to imagine living such a life of conspicuous consumption in the 18th century. Little wonder there was a popular revolution when a family dynasty lived amidst such extravagant wealth.
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It was the "Sun King," Louis XIV (1638-1715), who chose the sun as his emblem. This is a reproduction of the original fence completed and installed in 2008.
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(No captions; just click on photos to enlarge)
This is my favorite image and memory of the palace. Two groups of school children
learn about the history of France and Versailles in situ. They probably have no idea
just how lucky they are to experience history right where it happened.
learn about the history of France and Versailles in situ. They probably have no idea
just how lucky they are to experience history right where it happened.
IN THE GARDENS, Brrrrr. . .
Outside the weather was blustery and cold as seen by our hats, scarves and gloves. Even though nothing was in bloom, the architecture and layout of the formal gardens were still attractive in their own right, so we waited in line to rent a golf cart to take a mini motor-tour; but after 20+ minutes, the wind chill got the better of us, and we gave up. In good weather, I would have loved to walk throughout the gardens.
Next time!
Next time!
FUN IN THE VILLAGE OF VERSAILLES
(Point to each photo to read the additional caption; click to enlarge.)
Jonquilles au printemps. Le café pour le déjeuner. Le menu du jour. J'aime le chocolat! Quel bel affichage.
Nous prenons une promenade à travers la ville de lèche-vitrine.
Lisa achète macarons. Les hommes attendent. Jusqu'où paris? Ou est le gare? C'est le train pour Paris.