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About the region
Versailles, formerly de facto capital of the kingdom of France, is now a wealthy suburb of Paris and is still an important administrative and judicial center. The city of Versailles, located in the western suburbs of Paris, 17 km from the center of Paris, is the prefecture of the Yvelines department.
Region areas
Born out of the will of a king, the city has a rational and symmetrical grid of streets. For the standards of the 18th century, Versailles was a very modern European city. Versailles was used as a model for the building of Washington DC by Pierre Charles L’Enfant.
Attractions
Versailles is one of the best known names in Europe, mainly due to the palace that bears the city’s name. Once the center of power for three generations of French kings, the Palace of Versailles is one of Europe’s most famous attractions.
Transportation
Versailles is a chic suburb of Paris well linked with the center of Paris by several train lines. However, the city is extremely compartmented, divided by large avenues inherited from the monarchy which create the impression of several small cities ignoring each other.
Events
Versailles isn’t very popular with events, but those that do take place annually shouldn’t be missed. One such example is the Moliere Month, which celebrates the life and works of the artist.
Restaurants & Nightlife
Versailles itself has any number of good places to eat whilst visiting. Once you have made it into the palace grounds, however, it should be noted that it is far more convenient to eat within, the alternative being to hike back into town. The grounds are also perfect for picnicking in warm weather.
History & Civilisation
The suburb city of Versailles has been an integral part of French history. With the nomination of the city as the new capital of France during the reign of the Sun King and the building of the most prestigious and most luxurious palace in Europe, Versailles was a real pearl in during the 17th and the 18th centuries.
Versailles – former glory of the French monarchy
When the building of the Palace started, Versailles was but a country village on the outskirts of the French capital. From 1682, when King Louis XIV moved from Paris, until the royal family was forced to return to the capital in 1789, the Court of Versailles was the center of power. Versailles is therefore famous not only as a building, but as a symbol of the system of absolute monarchy which Louis XIV espoused.