Versailles

Today was the much anticipated visit to the grand palace of Versailles, home to King Louis XIV, Louis XV, and Louis XVI. We took the RER, which is like Marta all the way to Versailles. It was actually quite easy going there because we got to stroll through a little bit of Paris in order to get to the right train. On the way back however, we were all very tired and the walk was not quite as enjoyable. But anyway, getting to the town and buying our tickets (Morgan and Kelly were free because we are still children under 18) was a breeze and then we made our way to the famously fabulous palace at Verasailles.

You cannot even begin to describe how vast and extravagant the entire castle is. King Louis XIV built Versailles to escape the enclosed life he found in the Louvre in the heart of Paris. But also, interestingly, he invited other nobles to stay in Versailles so he could wine and dine them frequently which would distract them enough so he could run the country the way he wanted to. The vast drive and courtyard leading up to Versailles would definately intimidate anyone coming to visit the king, thus achieving its purpose. Inside, Versailles is even more impressive. Every room has murals on the ceilling, most of them depicting Greek gods in honor of King Louis XIV known as Apollo the sun god. It is interesting that the only part of Versailles that had any proof that the monarchs were catholic was in the chapel and even there, the people bowed down to the king while he was in prayer with God.

Once we finished the tour through the palace, including the famous Great Hall of Mirrors, we headed to the grounds to see the imaculate gardens. Once again, the Greek gods seem to be the main focus of the decoration. We ended up touring a few of the smaller manors that the kings and especially Marie Antonette sought refuge at.