This lavish architectural masterpiece that symbolizes the extravagance and splendor of the French Monarchy was constructed for Louis XIV and began with a simple hunting lodge for his father Louis XIII in 1624. Designs and construction on a large magnitude started when the king announced Versailles to be the official seat of the French Kingdom in 1678. Palace of Versailles, or Chateau de Versailles, also was home to Louis XV and Louis XVI - who both also made opulent improvements - before the royals were forced out in 1789 during the French Revolution. Palace highlights include the Hall of Mirrors, Museum of the History of France, King's Apartments, The Queen's Hamlet, Grand Trianon, Petite Trianon, Opera, Chapel and the impressive gardens. It is a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site. Show All
