The Grand Trianon is a unique architectural building built in 1687. The construction was overseen by King Louis XIV, and once complete was used as a private residence where he could spend time with his secret wife, Madame de Maintenon. It was originally known as the ‘Marble Trianon’ on account of the pink marble panels which adorned the palace’s elegant façades.
Estate Of Trianon
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Away from all the ceremony of the Palace, the Estate of Trianon lies adjacent to the Petit Park and is home to the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon palaces, the Queen’s Hamlet and a variety of ornamental gardens. Construction of the Trianon estate began under Louis XIV, however, It is most closely associated with Queen Marie-Antoinette, the wife of Louis XVI as she often sought refuge here and commissioned the large and marvelous landscaped gardens centered around a hamlet of rustic cottages.
The Petit Trianon was a neo-classical masterpiece built for King Louis XV. This royal residence was a symbol of the king’s passion for the botanical sciences: he was keen to have a home in the heart of the gardens to which he devoted so much of his time. In 1774, Queen Marie-Antoinette received the Petit Trianon as a gift from King Louis XVI, as she has trouble adapting to life in the palace and often sought refuge here. She became greatly attached to the estate and rapidly made it her own by re-decorating it.
The Queen’s Hamlet is a result of the queen’s fascination with the charms of rural life. The model village was inspired by the traditional rustic architecture of Normandy and included a windmill and dairy, as well as a dining room, salon, billiard room and boudoir. Although it was reserved primarily for the education of her children, Marie-Antoinette also used the hamlet for promenades and hosting guests.
Hours
Tuesday - Sunday from 12:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Last entry is at 6:00 PM
Entrances
Entrance to the Marie Antoinette’s Estate, Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet is included only in the Passport Ticket. Your general admission ticket does not allow entry to these parts of the Estate.
