Heritage Days 2026 at the Grand Stables of Versailles (78): free, self-guided visits

The Heritage Days 2026 offer a chance to discover diverse arts: thus, on the weekend of September 19–20, 2026, the Versailles Equestrian Academy invites Île-de-France residents to uncover the hidden heritage of the Palace of Versailles by stepping inside the Grand Stables of Versailles, reopened by the equestrian Bartabas, who has based his company-school there since 2003...

Located opposite the Château de Versailles, the Royal Stables were built by Jules Hardouin-Mansart between 1679 and 1682 to house the horses and carriages of the King and Court.

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The Grande Écurie de Versailles is an architectural gem dating from 1683, home to the royal cavalry and a magnificent riding arena and carriage gallery. Inspired by the Farnese Theatre in Parma, the manège is a fine example of 17th-century architecture. Fascinatingly, the building is a nod to the Château's Galerie des Glaces, with its majestic mirrors and Murano glass chandeliers.

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The Galerie des Carrosses also showcases some of the finest carriages in thehistory of Versailles, including the sedans used at Napoleon I's wedding, Charles X's coronation carriage, Louis XVIII's funeral carriage, Marie-Antoinette's children's carriages and an astonishing collection of fancy sleighs made during the reign of Louis XV.

After this enchanting tour, head off to discover theOpéra de Versailles, a hidden Versailles landmark designed in 1682 by Jacques-Ange Gabriel to celebrate the wedding of the Dauphin - the future Louis XVI - to Marie-Antoinette.

The 2026 Heritage Days program at Versailles' Grand Stables:

• Self-guided tour of the royal stables

  The Versailles Equestrian Academy, founded by Bartabas, is exceptionally opening its doors for a free, self-guided visit to showcase the heritage and architecture of the royal stables designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart during the reign of the Sun King.

  From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (last admission at 11:30 a.m.)

  Participation terms: Free

  Schedule: Saturday, September 19, 2026 – 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. | Sunday, September 20, 2026 – 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

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