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All About the Versailles' Hall of Mirrors
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Contents
The Palace of Versailles is a royal residence that Loius XIV commissioned. What was once a hunting lodge is now a palace that houses some of the fanciest rooms and galleries, one of which is the Hall of Mirrors. Constructed in the 17th century, the French Baroque-style gallery exudes richness from every corner, owing to its 17 embellished arches, 357 mirrors, and gleaming chandeliers. Want to know more interesting details about the Hall of Mirrors? Scroll down!
What is the Hall of Mirrors?
The Hall of Mirrors, a Baroque-style gallery, is located within the Palace of Versailles and is one of its most popular rooms. It was built to replace a large terrace in the same place and stretches an impressive 73 meters long. The hall features 17 ornate arches adorned with 357 mirrors, which serves as a testament to France's economic prosperity and its ability to beat the Venetian monopoly over mirror production. On the ceiling, you will observe Charles Le Brun's exemplary work with 30 painted scenes chronicling the political successes of the first 18 years of the Sun King's reign. The hall's grandeur pushed it to become the site of several historical incidents like the Proclamation of the German Empire in 1871, the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, and many other royal ceremonies.
Know More About VersaillesWhy Visit Hall of Mirrors?
- Stand on the ground where history was made: The Hall of Mirrors hosted several illustrious events. To name a few, it witnessed the Proclamation of the German War after the French defeat in 1870, the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919 that ended World War I, and other official ceremonies that saw the likes of John F. Kennedy and such.
- Gawk at the dreamy architecture: The hall's architecture is worth noting. Next to the 17 curved windows, there are 17 mirror-clad arches overlooking the garden. Each arch has 21 mirrors, totaling 357 mirrors in the entire hall. The interplay of the natural lights reflecting on the shiny mirrors makes the hall seem larger than life!
- Observe the story on the ceiling: Charles Le Brun, termed 'the greatest French artist of all time' by Louis XIV, diligently painted the hall ceiling. It depicts the first 18 years of the Sun King's reign from 1661 to the signing of peace treaties of Nijmegen. These paintings tell the tale of his political successes and military victories.
Highlights of Versailles' Hall of Mirrors
Rouge de Rance Pilasters
The hall features Rouge de Rance marble pilasters made of red reef limestones and gilded bronze capitals based on the 'French Style.' Charles Le Brun crafted this at Colbert's request. To give more character to the columns, they have fancy gilded bronze tops with symbols defining France, like a fleur-de-lis with a royal sun and two Gallic roosters. They show how artistic and proud France is of its identity and history.
Gold-Framed Windows
The hall is bathed in natural light streaming through its colossal, stylish gold-framed windows. These windows, with their intricate designs and gilded accents, scream opulence and help illuminate the space, making the hall look larger than it is. Fun fact: France was determined to build the Hall of Mirrors using only French materials, so these windows are as authentic as they get. When you look at them, feel the echoes of 17th-century France in every detail!
Ceiling Paintings by Charles Le Brun
Charles Le Brun painted 30 elaborate compositions on the ceiling representing Louis XIV's legacy and political victories during his first 18 years of rule. They especially emphasize his success during the Dutch Wars of the 1660s-1670s. One notable painting, 'The King Governs for Himself,' is right in the center of the ceiling and illustrates the Sun King residing on the mighty throne. It adds character to the hall, and art enthusiasts will absolutely adore it!
Mirror-Clad Arches
The Hall's 17 arches, adorned with 357 mirrors, are strategically positioned opposite the 17 embowed windows. Outside the windows lies the carefully maintained gardens of Versailles, with ancient trees, bushes trimmed in geometrical shapes, blooming flowers, and monumental fountains depicting Greek gods. This lush view is often reflected in the mirrors on the arches, replicating the garden's beauty inside the gallery.
Plan Your Visit to Versailles Hall of Mirrors
Opening Hours
Getting There
Timings: 9am to 6:30pm (Tuesdays to Sundays) during high season and 9am to 5:30pm (Tuesdays to Sundays) during low season
Last entry: 6pm during high season and 5pm during low season
Closed on: Monday, May 1, and December 25
Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Hall of Mirrors is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds so you can peacefully soak in the hall's grandeur without being rushed around.
Address: Palace of Versailles, Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
The Hall of Mirrors is centrally located within the Palace of Versailles, in the heart of the royal residence near the King's Grand Apartments.
Closest landmark: King’s Grand Apartments
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Frequently Asked Questions About Versailles Hall of Mirrors
When was the Hall of Mirrors built?
The hall of Mirrors was built between 1678 and 1684 during the reign of Louis XIV.
How many mirrors are there in the Hall of Mirrors?
The hall boasts 357 mirrors strategically placed to create an illusion of infinite space.
Who painted the ceiling of the Hall of Mirrors, and what does it depict?
The ceiling paintings, created by renowned artist Charles Le Brun, depict Louis XIV's military conquests and political achievements.
Are there any historical events associated with the Hall of Mirrors?
Yes, the hall was where the Proclamation of the German Empire took place in 1871.
What materials were used to decorate the hall?
The hall features gold-framed windows, gilded bronze capitals, and Rouge de Rance marble pilasters among its decorative elements.
How can I visit the Hall of Mirrors?
The hall is located within the Palace of Versailles and can be accessed with a ticket to the palace.
Are guided tours available for the Hall of Mirrors?
Yes, guided tours of the Palace of Versailles often include the Hall of Mirrors.
Is the Hall of Mirrors accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, the Palace of Versailles has facilities and accommodations to ensure accessibility for visitors with disabilities, including access to the Hall of Mirrors.