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Explore The Gallery of Coaches at The Palace of Versailles
The Gallery of Coaches is located in the heart of the Great Stables of the Palace of Versailles. The Great Stables were designed by the architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart and built between 1679 and 1682. The stables were built to house the royal horses, and the Gallery of Coaches was originally used to store the carriages used by the French monarchs. The Great Stables are one of the largest and most impressive equestrian facilities in the world, and visitors to the Gallery of Coaches can also explore the stunning architecture of this historic building.
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One of the highlights of the Gallery of Coaches is the collection of travelling thrones. These thrones were used by the French monarchs when they were on the move, and they were designed to be portable and lightweight. The thrones are beautifully crafted and adorned with gold leaf and velvet, and they were a symbol of the power and status of the French monarchy. The travelling thrones in the Gallery of Coaches are some of the most impressive examples of this type of furniture in the world, and they provide a fascinating insight into the lives of the French monarchs.
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The collection of coaches in the Gallery of Coaches was brought together by Louis-Philippe, the last king of France, in the 19th century. Louis-Philippe was a passionate collector of art and antiques, and he was particularly interested in the history of the French monarchy. He acquired many of the coaches in the collection from private collectors, and he also commissioned the restoration of many of the coaches in the gallery. The collection is a unique testament to Louis-Philippe's love of history and his desire to preserve the legacy of the French monarchy.
The coaches in the gallery are not only beautiful works of art, but also valuable historical artifacts. They provide a fascinating insight into the lives of the French monarchs and their entourage, and they showcase the incredible skill and craftsmanship of the artisans who created them. The coaches are not just vehicles, but symbols of power, status, and luxury, and they are a reminder of the grandeur of the French monarchy.
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Know Before You Go To Versailles Palace Gallery of Coaches
- Opening Time: The gallery is open every Saturday and Sunday, from 10:00am to 5:30pm. However, it's important to check the Palace of Versailles website for any changes to opening hours, as they may be subject to change without notice.
- Location: The Gallery of Coaches is located in the Great Stables of the Palace of Versailles, which can be accessed through the Cour des Princes. The Palace of Versailles is easily accessible by public transportation, with the Versailles-Château-Rive Gauche train station located a short walk away from the palace. Visitors can also reach the palace by car or by taking a guided tour
- Last admission : The last admission to the Gallery of Coaches is at 5:15pm, so be sure to arrive before then if you want to see the entire collection. It's recommended to give yourself at least an hour to explore the gallery and admire the stunning vehicles on display.
- Access: Free
- Tips to Visit: Access to the Gallery of Coaches is included in the Palace of Versailles admission ticket. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the ticket desk on site. Audio guides are available for an additional fee and provide an informative and engaging way to learn about the history of the coaches on display.
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FAQs
Which are the best places to visit in Versailles for kids?
- The Trianon Palaces and Marie-Antoinette's Estate: a smaller palace and gardens that offer a glimpse into the life of Marie-Antoinette and the royal family
- The Queen's Hamlet: a picturesque village built for Marie-Antoinette that includes farm animals and gardens
- The Musical Fountains Show: a spectacular water show set to music in the gardens of Versailles that takes place during the summer months
- The Gallery of Coaches: a collection of magnificent carriages and coaches used by the royal family
Are there any apartments inside the Palace of Versailles?
- The State Apartments: a series of rooms that were used for official functions and ceremonies, including the famous Hall of Mirrors
- The Private Apartments of the Kings: a collection of rooms used by the king and his family for personal and private activities
- The Private Apartments of the Queens: a collection of rooms used by the queen and her family for personal and private activities
- The Dauphin's Apartment: a suite of rooms used by the crown prince and his family
How do you get to the Park of Versailles?
The Park of Versailles can be reached by train, with the Versailles-Château-Rive Gauche station located a short walk from the entrance to the park. Visitors can also take a guided tour or arrive by car. Once inside the park, visitors can explore on foot, rent a bike, or take a train or golf cart tour.
What is the best time to visit Versailles?
The best time to visit Versailles is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), when the crowds are smaller and the weather is mild. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.
What is the Palace of Versailles famous for?
The Palace of Versailles is famous for its opulent architecture, stunning gardens, and rich history as the former residence of the French royal family. It's also known for its association with figures such as Louis XIV and Marie-Antoinette, as well as for its role in French history and culture. Today, the palace is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site.