Cour royale du Château de Versailles, Royal courtyard in Palace of Versailles, France.
The Royal Courtyard of the Palace of Versailles sits between the Marble Court and the Court of Honor, bordered by the Gabriel Wing and the Dufour Pavilion. This space connects different sections of the palace complex and serves as a transition zone that links the interior and exterior parts of the estate.
The courtyard emerged in the 17th century as the core of the royal residence and formed a central axis of the palace complex. Its development progressed alongside the palace expansions that took place over successive generations.
This courtyard was where court ceremonies took place, with noblemen entering through different routes depending on their rank and status. The layout itself communicated power and hierarchy through the positioning of its spaces.
Visiting the courtyard requires a valid palace ticket and is included in the standard touring routes through Versailles. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the routes through the complex are lengthy and cover stone surfaces.
The floor features a precise geometric pattern laid in stone that creates optical effects. This subtle design guides visitors almost imperceptibly toward the most important points of the complex.
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