The Gardens of Versailles

In 1990 a vast restoration project was initiated for the park at Versailles. This gigantic task aimed at returning the gardens, as closely as possible, to their original layout. This book celebrates the event by presenting a detailed history of the gardens, from the hunting estate acquired by Louis XIII, to the park of today. Hundred of visitors are drawn here to appreciate the unique and sumptuous era when Versailles became the ultimate symbol of the legendary Sun King. There followed, first, the age of Louis XV, when the Trianon became one of the favourite haunts of the Court, then the reign of Louis XVI, which saw its surroundings transformed into one of the most extraordinary jardin anglais produced in France during the eighteenth century. Throughout the nineteenth century, the gardens were maintained, restored and replanted, and today they are being further restored to their original state, reflecting the most significant contributions made by each of the preceding periods. More than two hundred reproductions, plans, drawings, paintings and engravings, as well as colour photographs of the existing gardens, illustrate this book. Each is accompanied by a short explanation that encourages the reader to relive the centuries that reflect the gardens.