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Bassin de la Pyramide: Versailles's Cascading Jewel

A stunning 17th-century fountain in Versailles featuring cascading water, sculptures, and symbolic representation of power and knowledge.

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The Bassin de la Pyramide, or Pyramid Fountain, is a captivating water feature in the Gardens of Versailles. Built in the 17th century, it showcases tiered basins adorned with sculptures, embodying the era's mastery of hydraulic engineering and classical design.

A brief summary to Bassin de la Pyramide

  • Monday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the fountain shows (weekends, March-October) to see the water features in full display.
  • Explore the surrounding gardens for a peaceful escape and to discover other hidden gems.
  • Consider a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the Bassin de la Pyramide.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Palace of Versailles, walk north through the gardens, following signs for the Grand Trianon. The Bassin de la Pyramide is located northeast of the palace, at the intersection of Allée de Cérès-et-de-Flore and Allée d'Eau. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No additional costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the Versailles-Château Rive Gauche train station, take bus line 4 towards Versailles Pershing. Get off at the Bosquet stop, which is a short walk to the gardens and the Bassin de la Pyramide. A single bus fare is approximately €2. Alternatively, from the train station, you can walk for approximately 20-25 minutes to reach the fountain.

  • Driving

    If driving, enter the Versailles estate through the main entrance on Place d'Armes. Follow signs for visitor parking. Parking fees apply: approximately €4.80 for the first hour at the Place d'Armes parking. From the parking area, walk through the gardens towards the Palace of Versailles, then follow the walking directions to the Bassin de la Pyramide. Keep in mind that on certain days, access to the park by car costs 12€.

Unlock the Best of Bassin de la Pyramide

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Discover more about Bassin de la Pyramide

The Bassin de la Pyramide, a striking fountain in the Versailles gardens, stands as a testament to the artistic and engineering achievements of Louis XIV's reign. Located at the intersection of Allée de Cérès-et-de-Flore and Allée d'Eau, this fountain marks the culmination of the Apollonian quest. Designed by François Girardon and inspired by Charles Le Brun, the pyramid consists of four superimposed lead vases. These vases are supported by tritons, dolphins, and crayfish, creating a dynamic display of cascading water. The fountain, constructed in 1670 and given a circular shape in 1683, is not only a visual spectacle but also a symbolic representation of knowledge and the Temple of Delphi. Visiting the Bassin de la Pyramide offers a chance to witness the grandeur of Versailles and appreciate the intricate details of its design. The fountain's water displays, which typically occur between March and October on weekends, add to the experience. The surrounding gardens provide a serene environment for relaxation and exploration, making it a must-see attraction for any visitor to Versailles.

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