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Hall of Mirrors: A Reflection of Royal Grandeur

Experience the dazzling Hall of Mirrors at Versailles, a symbol of French power and artistry. A must-see historical masterpiece!

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The Hall of Mirrors, or Galerie des Glaces, at the Palace of Versailles is a breathtaking display of French artistry and power. Built in the 17th century to replace a terrace, it commemorates Louis XIV's political, economic, and artistic achievements with its stunning architecture and opulent decor.

A brief summary to Hall of Mirrors

  • Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds.
  • Consider a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of the Hall of Mirrors.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Check the Palace of Versailles website for closures due to official ceremonies.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Paris, take the RER C train to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. From the station, it's about a 10-minute walk to the Palace of Versailles. Alternatively, take the Transilien train from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers station or from Gare Saint-Lazare to Versailles Rive Droite station. From Versailles Rive Droite, you can take bus line 6201 to Préfecture, a short walk from the palace. A single train ticket from Paris to Versailles costs approximately €3-€5. A bus ticket from Versailles Rive Droite to the Palace is included in the train ticket.

  • Taxi

    A taxi or ride-sharing service from Paris to the Palace of Versailles takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost is around €30-€40. From Versailles-Rive-Droite Station a taxi to Hall of Mirrors will cost approximately €6-€9.

  • Driving

    If driving, take the A13 autoroute from Paris. Exit at Versailles and follow signs to the Palace. Parking is available at Place d'Armes in front of the Palace, but it can be expensive and fills up quickly. Expect to pay around €4.80 per hour for the first four hours, then €2.40 per hour. Cheaper parking options are available further away from the palace. Another option is parking in the Palace Park via the Queen's Gate for €12 per vehicle.

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Discover more about Hall of Mirrors

The Hall of Mirrors, the most iconic room in the Palace of Versailles, stands as a testament to the grandeur and ambition of Louis XIV. Constructed between 1678 and 1684, it replaced a former terrace that was exposed to the elements. Jules Hardouin-Mansart designed the hall, while Charles Le Brun oversaw its decoration. The hall stretches 73 meters long and is adorned with 357 mirrors, a demonstration of France's economic prosperity at the time, rivaling Venice's monopoly on mirror manufacturing. The mirrors reflect the light streaming in from the 17 windows that overlook the palace gardens, creating a dazzling effect. The vaulted ceiling features 30 painted compositions by Le Brun, depicting the glorious history of Louis XIV during the first 18 years of his reign. The Hall of Mirrors served multiple purposes. It was a meeting and waiting area for courtiers and visitors. It also hosted lavish events, such as royal weddings and diplomatic receptions. In 1871, it was the site of the proclamation of the German Empire, a symbolic moment of French humiliation. Later, in 1919, the Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I, was signed here, marking a moment of French triumph. Today, the Hall of Mirrors continues to be used for official ceremonies of the French Republic. A visit to the Hall of Mirrors offers a glimpse into the opulence and power of the French monarchy, as well as the significant historical events that have taken place within its walls.

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