7 Secret Columns Of Versailles Revealed

The opulence and grandeur of the Palace of Versailles in France have captivated millions of visitors and inspired numerous artistic and historical narratives. While the palace's most famous rooms are well-documented, hidden within its sprawling wings lie lesser-known treasures, the secret columns that contribute significantly to its architectural splendor. In this deep dive, we'll reveal seven such columns that offer a unique perspective into Versailles's lesser-known architectural secrets.

The Hall of Mirrors: A Symphony in Architecture

The Hall of Mirrors is perhaps the most iconic feature of Versailles. It's here we find The Glittering Columns:

• Design: These columns are adorned with gold leaf and intricate carvings, reflecting light in a way that amplifies the room's grandeur.
• Materials: Made of marble with bronze mounts, they are not just structural but are a testament to the art of French artisanship.
• Function: Beyond their structural support, these columns also serve to frame the 17 large arched mirrors, creating a corridor of light and reflection.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: For a less crowded experience, visit the Hall of Mirrors in the late afternoon when the golden hour strikes, enhancing the mirror effect.</p>

The Chapel: The Architectural Awe

Versailles's chapel, less frequented by visitors, houses:

The Spiral Columns of the Chapels

• Aesthetic: These columns spiral upwards, adorned with gilded bronze and intricate floral motifs.
• Significance: They signify the ascent to the heavens, mirroring the Christian theme of resurrection and spiritual elevation.

The Columns of St. Louis

• Historical Link: They evoke the medieval chapel of Saint Louis, connecting the modern world with the era of the Crusades through their Gothic-inspired design.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: Look up to see the intricate carvings on the capitals of these columns, which often go unnoticed by the casual observer.</p>

The Royal Opera: An Acoustic Marvel

The Royal Opera, a testament to Louis XV's vision, contains:

The Supporting Columns

• Materials: Constructed from wood and covered in richly painted stucco, these columns provide both support and beauty.
• Sound Dispersion: They help to distribute sound throughout the room, creating an acoustic environment that was remarkably advanced for its time.

The King's Bedchamber: The Private Sanctuary

The King's Bedchamber, once the heart of royal activity, features:

The Columns of Zeus

• Decoration: These columns are embellished with gilded bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Greek mythology.
• Function: They frame the royal bed, emphasizing the king's divine right to rule.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: Time your visit to witness the ceremonial changing of the guards, an event that adds to the historical atmosphere of the chamber.</p>

The Hall of Peace and War: Artistic Dualities

Within this room, we find:

The Columns of Duality

• Artistic Representation: One set of columns is adorned with scenes of war, and another with peace, reflecting the room's name and the dualities of royal life.
• Craftsmanship: These columns are some of the most intricate in Versailles, showcasing the mastery of 18th-century French sculptors.

The Hercules Salon: A Tribute to Classical Mythology

The Hercules Salon, a masterpiece of ornate design, contains:

The Atlantes Columns

• Support and Decoration: Not just mere columns, but they depict Atlas figures bearing the weight of the world, symbolizing the king's god-like power.

The Orangery: Nature Within Architecture

Finally, the Orangery, a triumph of landscape architecture, features:

The Peristyle Columns

• Combination of Form and Function: These columns create a walkway and provide structural support for the vast glass ceiling, ensuring that the citrus trees could thrive through Versailles's harsh winters.

In uncovering these secret columns, we gain insight not only into the architectural splendor of Versailles but also into its historical and cultural significance. Each column, from the grand halls to the private chambers, tells a story of power, art, and the indomitable human spirit striving for immortality through architecture.

To enrich your experience with Versailles's marvels, don't miss exploring related tutorials on the architectural wonders of French palaces or delve into the art of baroque design.

<p class="pro-note">🌞 Pro Tip: Make sure to check the schedule for evening visits when Versailles is illuminated, highlighting the columns in a magical light.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can you touch the columns at Versailles?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>No, visitors are not allowed to touch the columns or any artifacts at Versailles to preserve their historical integrity.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How were these secret columns discovered?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Many columns are not "secret" per se but are less known due to their placement or being overshadowed by more famous rooms. Historians and architects over time have documented these details.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What materials are these columns made from?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>They primarily consist of marble, bronze, and wood, often gilded or painted to enhance their visual impact.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Are there tours focusing specifically on these columns?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>While not exclusively focused on columns, architectural tours can highlight these elements. Check with the official Versailles website for specific tours.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>