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Versailles
King Louis XIV’s Chateau de Versailles was build by 30,000 workers in the 1600's during the height of the absolute power of the monarchy. Versailles exorbitant splendour is still evident today to the three million people who visit it every year. The gardens themselves are worth visiting Versailles for without even venturing inside the chateau building. They are expansive and impressive and best of all free to walk through. It is fairly densely forested in parts but very well laid out with lakes, canals and fountains positioned in considered spots, a series of ordered terraces as well as many statues strategically placed. The area near the castle is mostly clay but with formal manicured gardens with flowers and shaped fir trees. A train links the canal and palace and bikes can be hired for most of the year except in winter. Inside worth seeing is the long Hall of Mirrors where the treaty that ended WW1 was signed and King Louis’ bedroom. Return to places to see Paris |