Water theatre grove

The Water Theatre Grove is a baroque water garden at the Palace of Versailles featuring contemporary glass artworks and green spaces arranged in geometric patterns around a central fountain display. The grove blends classical French garden design with modern artistic installations throughout its layout.

The grove was created between 1671 and 1674 by André Le Nôtre as an open-air theater with water engineering by brothers François and Pierre Francine. Its initial design as a theater space continues to shape how the area is experienced today.

The contemporary glass sculptures by Jean-Michel Othoniel echo the dance movements once performed at Louis XIV's court through their flowing forms. These artworks create a bridge between the baroque past and modern times that visitors encounter while walking through the space.

Access is through the Neptune fountain entrance, and the area is open during regular garden hours. Wearing sturdy shoes is advisable since the ground can be uneven and wet after rain.

An elliptical basin within the grove contains eight original lead cherub sculptures that were initially intended for the nearby Marly castle. These figures were later relocated to this location and now represent an overlooked part of the collection.