Grille royale of Versailles, Main entrance gate at Palace of Versailles, France.
The Royal Gate of Palace of Versailles is a monumental iron gate adorned with gold leaf, featuring intricate symmetrical metalwork patterns and ceremonial proportions. On either side of the central passage stand guard pavilions that underscore its role as the formal barrier between different palace areas.
The gate was constructed in 1680 under Louis XIV's supervision and served as a symbol of royal power for over a century. It was destroyed during the French Revolution in 1794, but early 21st-century reconstruction restored its original appearance.
The gate displays sculptures representing Peace and Abundance above the guard pavilions, embodying royal values of French governance. Visitors can observe the fine decorative details and symbolic imagery that expressed the court's power and prosperity.
The gate marks the transition between the Court of Honor and the Royal Court, controlling visitor access to the main palace grounds. Allow time to view it before or after your palace tour, as the area may be very crowded during peak hours.
The restoration of this gate was an ambitious project that required specialized craftsmanship to recapture its original beauty. Workers carefully replicated every detail while preserving the royal heritage of the 17th century.
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