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Galerie des Batailles: A Chronicle of French Military History

Experience 15 centuries of French military history through monumental paintings and sculptures in the Palace of Versailles' largest gallery.

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The Galerie des Batailles (Gallery of Battles) in the Palace of Versailles is the largest room in the palace, showcasing 33 monumental paintings depicting over 15 centuries of French military victories, from the Battle of Tolbiac in 496 to the Battle of Wagram in 1809. It also features 82 busts of notable military leaders.

A brief summary to Galerie des Batailles

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience.
  • Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the historical significance of the paintings and battles.
  • Allow ample time to appreciate each artwork; some are quite large and detailed.
  • Check the official website for temporary exhibitions that may coincide with your visit.
  • Combine your visit with other attractions in Versailles, such as the Hall of Mirrors and the Gardens.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Versailles-Rive Gauche train station, the Galerie des Batailles is approximately a 10-minute walk. Exit the station and turn right onto Avenue de l'Opéra. Continue straight until you reach Place d'Armes. The Galerie des Batailles is inside the Palace of Versailles complex at the end of the square.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving via the RER C train, disembark at the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station. From there, walk straight across the street towards the Palace of Versailles. The Galerie des Batailles is located within the palace complex. A Navigo Easy Pass can be loaded with tickets costing €2.50 each way.

  • Driving

    From the A13 motorway, take exit no.5 Versailles Centre and follow the signs for the Palace of Versailles. Several paid parking lots are available near the Palace. Place d'Armes parking is the closest, with rates of €4.80/hour for the first 4 hours and €2.40/hour thereafter. Palace Park entrance fee through the Grille de la Reine is €12 per car.

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Discover more about Galerie des Batailles

The Galerie des Batailles, the most important of the historical galleries created by Louis-Philippe in the Palace of Versailles, is dedicated to French military history. Inaugurated on June 10, 1837, the gallery occupies almost the entire first floor of the South Wing and is the largest room in the palace, measuring 120 meters long and 13 meters wide. The gallery's walls showcase 33 monumental paintings, each approximately 5 meters in height and 5 to 7 meters in width, created by prominent artists such as Horace Vernet, Eugène Delacroix, and François Gérard. Arranged chronologically, the paintings begin with the Battle of Tolbiac in 496 AD and end with the Battle of Wagram in 1809. Each painting is accompanied by a detailed inscription providing historical context and significance. All the dynasties that ruled over France are evoked: Merovingians, Carolingians, Capetians, Valois, and Bourbons. The gallery also features 82 busts of notable military leaders, emphasizing martial glory. These busts, along with bronze tables bearing the names of princes, constables, marshals, and admirals killed or wounded for France, reinforce the gallery's theme of national pride and military achievement. Since its opening, the gallery has remained intact, with all the works commissioned by Louis-Philippe for its decoration. Today, it stands as one of the most impressive examples of Louis-Philippe's project for Versailles and one of the finest examples of major museum projects of the 19th century.

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