Versailles palace gardens

The Gardens of Versailles, designed by André Le Nôtre in the 17th century, are an icon of French landscape architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

About this subject

The Gardens of Versailles, created for Louis XIV, the Sun King, between 1661 and 1700, represent the pinnacle of the formal French garden (jardin à la française). Landscape architect André Le Nôtre transformed 800 hectares of swamps and forests into a symmetrical complex of parterres, canals, fountains, and statues. The main axis, the Grand Canal, stretches 1.5 km and was used for gondola rides and aquatic festivals.

Over 200,000 trees were planted, notably oaks, elms, and lindens, arranged in outdoor rooms called bosquets. Each bosquet has its own theme, such as the Salle de Bal, the Bosquet de l'Arc de Triomphe, and the Bosquet des Rocailles. The fountains, powered by an innovative hydraulic system for its time, included the Latona Fountain and the Apollo Fountain, the latter featuring Apollo's chariot emerging from the water.

The gardens hosted grand royal festivities, such as the Fêtes des Plaisirs de l'Île Enchantée in 1664, which lasted three days and included theater, music, and fireworks. Maintenance required an army of gardeners and constant pruning of hedges. Today, the gardens attract about 6 million visitors annually and have been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979. Every summer, the Grandes Eaux Nocturnes show recreates the baroque atmosphere with lighting and music.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed the Gardens of Versailles?

The gardens were designed by French landscape architect André Le Nôtre, commissioned by Louis XIV. Le Nôtre also worked on other famous projects such as the Vaux-le-Vicomte gardens and the Tuileries Garden in Paris.

How many hectares are the Gardens of Versailles?

The gardens of the Palace of Versailles cover approximately 800 hectares, including the Grand Canal, bosquets, fountains, and parkland. Of this, 100 hectares are occupied by the formal gardens closest to the palace.

Are the Gardens of Versailles open to the public?

Yes, the gardens are open to the public every day. Admission is free most of the year, except on days of special events like the Grandes Eaux Nocturnes, when a ticket is required.