Latona's Pool and Parterre, Versailles Travel Guide

Latona's Pool and Parterre, an iconic feature within the Gardens of Versailles, embodies the grandeur and artistic brilliance of the 17th-century French monarchy. Commissioned by Louis XIV and designed by André Le Nôtre, this baroque garden masterpiece serves as a visual spectacle and embodies the mythological and political narratives of the era.The parterre's design is inspired by Ovid's Metamorphoses, illustrating the story of Latona protecting her children, Apollo and Diana, from the insults of the Lycian peasants. The central marble group, sculpted by the Marsy brothers, depicts Latona and her children appealing to Jupiter for vengeance, who then transforms the peasants into frogs and lizards. This metamorphosis is an allegory of the divine protection given to King Louis XIV, who chose Apollo, the sun god, as the symbol of his reign.The Latona Fountain features gilded bronze figures surrounding a large pyramid. The four tiers are covered in 230 pieces of marble, including white and grey-veined Cararra, greenish marble from Campan, and red marble from Languedoc. The pool is shaped like a star, framed by trees and flowerbeds, and flanked by parterres, terraces, and white steps. The fountain was initially placed on a rock surrounded by six figures of peasants in mid-transformation, with 24 frogs positioned on the lawn. Jules Hardouin-Mansart modified the layout between 1687 and 1689, replacing the rock with a marble pyramid and turning the group to face the Grand Canal.Located in the heart of the Gardens of Versailles, Latona's Parterre offers a striking and beautiful view. From the Water Parterre, visitors can see the North and South Parterres and Latona's Parterre, showcasing Le Nôtre's intricate patterns. The central section of the parterre can be reached by steps framed by bronze statues of sphinxes ridden by Loves.