Grande Écurie

The Grande Écurie is a vast complex of buildings directly across from the Palace of Versailles, built with a prominent colonnade and matching wings arranged on either side. Five internal courtyards divide the structure into organized sections for different functions related to horses and riders.

Jules Hardouin-Mansart designed and constructed these monumental stables between 1679 and 1682 under orders from King Louis XIV. The completion of the building coincided with Versailles becoming the primary center of French royal power and administration.

During the reign of Louis XIV, this institution became a center for training young nobles destined for military leadership, shaping how the kingdom viewed horsemanship and courtly education. The building still embodies this heritage of service and refinement that visitors encounter when exploring its grand spaces.

The building now serves as home to the National Equestrian Academy of Versailles, where visitors can watch riding demonstrations and training sessions on certain days. It is advisable to check ahead about performance schedules and which areas are open to the public.

During its peak in the 18th century, the complex held more than 2,000 horses and employed roughly 1,500 staff members, including specialists in animal medicine and musicians. This substantial workforce reveals how central horsemanship and animal care were to the royal operation.

Location: Versailles

Inception: 1679

Architects: Jules Hardouin-Mansart

Part of: Palace of Versailles

GPS coordinates: 48.80380,2.12829

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:45