Versailles Orangerie

The Versailles Orangerie is a long underground building with thick walls and vaulted ceilings designed to protect tender plants from cold weather. The interior space stretches across a considerable length and holds thousands of containers with citrus trees, palms, and other Mediterranean plants.

The original structure dates to 1663 but was later thoroughly redesigned and expanded into a larger protective edifice for the exotic collections. The transformation allowed for preserving one of Europe's largest citrus collections through the cold months.

The Orangerie served as a place of social ambition at court, where courtiers presented orange trees as precious gifts to gain the king's favor and advance their positions. This practice turned the space into a hub of hope for promotion and recognition within royal life.

The best time to visit is between May and October, when the plant containers are moved outdoors to the surrounding gardens for better light and air. Access is straightforward since the site is part of the Versailles palace grounds with clearly marked entrances.

The building cleverly uses its southern orientation and position beneath the upper garden to maximize heat retention without needing artificial heating. This passive insulation method was an ingenious solution for plant protection in the 17th century.