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All About the Versailles' Hall of Mirrors

Versailles TicketsHall of Mirrors

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?

Hall of Mirrors, Versailles

Quick Facts about Hall of Mirrors

  • Official name: Hall of Mirrors
  • Address: Palace of Versailles, France
  • Date of creation: Built between 1678-1684
  • Timings: 9am to 6:30pm (Tuesdays to Sundays) during high season and 9am to 5:30pm (Tuesdays to Sundays) during low season
  • Architect: Louis le Vau
  • Architectural style: Baroque
  • Number of visitors per year: Millions of visitors annually
  • Function: Serves as a gallery, depicting artistry and power of French monarchy

Why Visit Hall of Mirrors?

Versailles, France
  • 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

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, Versailles Palace

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

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 arches

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
Hall of Mirrors Versailles Timing

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.

Versailles Palace

Address: Palace of Versailles, Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France

Find on Maps

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

Hall of Mirrors Today

To this day, the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles is a carefully preserved testament to its fascinating past. Following extensive restoration efforts in recent decades, the hall retains its original splendor, maintains Charles Le Brun's ceiling paintings, and keeps the charm of other embellished architectural details on the columns and windows alive. For a more informative experience, the palace has placed multimedia displays to give you historical context and lesser-known insights into the hall's significance. While the hall was once used for political events, now it has evolved into a dynamic cultural space that hosts exhibitions, concerts, and events celebrating its heritage while meeting modern demands.




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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.