Equestrian statue of Louis XIV

The equestrian statue depicts Louis XIV mounted on a horse at the Place d'Armes facing the palace approach. Created in bronze by sculptors Pierre Cartellier and Louis Petitot, it originally stood in the Court of Honor before being moved to its present location.

The statue was commissioned by King Louis XVIII in 1836 and created by sculptors Pierre Cartellier and Louis Petitot. It was originally installed in the Court of Honor, then relocated decades later to its current position at the entrance square.

The sculpture marks the Place d'Armes as a focal point reflecting royal authority and prestige. Its position creates a visual axis that frames the approach to the palace complex.

You can view the sculpture from multiple vantage points around the square, making it easy to examine all sides. Morning light provides the best conditions for photography and appreciates the bronze details clearly.

The bronze underwent extensive restoration work before its relocation, reflecting how contemporary conservation methods shaped the monument's modern history. This transformation reveals the ongoing effort to preserve royal heritage for future generations.

Location: Versailles

Inception: 1836

Creator: Pierre Cartellier, Louis Petitot, Fonderie Crozatier

Made from material: bronze

Address: 78000 Versailles, France

Website: https://photos.app.goo.gl/4Snokd2xXHjBcbFn7

GPS coordinates: 48.80330,2.12596

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:41