The Château de Versailles is one of France's most popular monuments, both for tourists and the French. The palace of the Sun King is the stuff of dreams, with its famous Hall of Mirrors, the Battle Gallery, the King's and Queen's apartments, the royal opera house and the chapel... But the treasures of this place extend far beyond the castle walls...
The Trianon estate, made up of two smaller châteaux, is set in the vast grounds of the château. The grand Trianon was built for the exclusive use of Louis XIV, who wanted to be able to escape the Court and receive carefully selected prestigious guests. The Petit Trianon, on the other hand, was built by Louis XV, at the request of his favorite Madame de Pompadour. This neo-classical château was home to the high society of the day, and was later given as a gift to Marie-Antoinette by her husband Louis XVI.
These two monuments and their gardens can be visited all year round... But for a truly special experience, it's best to come and discover them after dark! This Saturday, May 18, 2024, the Petit Trianon opens its doors to visitors free of charge, for the 20th edition of Nuit des Musées. A magical evening awaits the curious.
For the 20th European Museums' Night, the Château de Versailles will be offering a special nocturnal tour of the Petit Trianon. You'll be able to discover the little château designed by architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel for King Louis XV, and which Queen Marie-Antoinette would later mark with her own style.
You'll then follow a path of light through the gardens to the Théâtre de la Reine, then to the Pavillon Français and on to the Jardin du Roi at the Grand Trianon, from where you'll reach the exit.
You'll be accompanied as you stroll through the gardens by mediators who will explain the historical and artistic context in which these spaces were built and decorated.
Pianists and harpists from the Conservatoire à Rayonnement Régional will perform pieces from different periods on the theme of nocturnes.
Entrance place d'Armes du Petit Trianon Exit place d'Armes du Grand Trianon Hours: 7:30 pm - midnight (last entrance 11 pm) Free admission without reservation Free admission for vehicles through the Queen's Gate from 6:30 pm
Further information on our website
An evening not to be missed as you rediscover one of the jewels of the Yvelines region.
Dates and Opening Time
On May 18th, 2024
Location
Château du Petit Trianon
Château de Versailles
78000 Versailles
Prices
Free
Official website
www.chateauversailles.fr
