Labyrinth, Garden maze in Versailles, France
The Labyrinth was a garden bosquet in Versailles with a network of winding paths between hedges. Along these paths stood a total of 39 fountains with lead animal sculptures from fables, each surrounded by rocks and shells.
André Le Nôtre designed this garden element in 1668 during the reign of Louis XIV. It was replaced in 1775 by the Queen's Grove when the winding hedges and mechanical water displays were no longer desired.
The name Labyrinth referred to the concept of a winding path network that guided visitors through artificial hedges. The fountains with their colored lead animals served as attractions where people would stop and observe the sculptural displays.
The original location of the Labyrinth no longer exists, but plans and historical records show its exact position in the Versailles garden. Visitors can still identify the site of the former bosquet and imagine its original structure.
The sculptures were made from lead painted in multiple colors, showcasing court artistic techniques of the time. This artistic treatment made each fountain an individual artwork that combined craftsmanship with imagination.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
