Musée de l'Histoire de France, National museum in Palace of Versailles, France

The Museum of the History of France occupies multiple wings of the Palace of Versailles and displays thousands of paintings and sculptures documenting French history. The collections are mainly housed in the attic spaces of the North and South Wings, where different galleries such as the Battles Gallery and Empire Rooms showcase works from various periods.

King Louis-Philippe I established the museum in 1837, converting the abandoned royal residence into a showcase of French historical accomplishments. This transformation was part of a broader effort to unite the nation after decades of political turmoil by emphasizing shared history and collective achievements.

The Salle des Croisades, opened in 1843, presents the Crusades as a French undertaking; Delacroix's Entry of the Crusaders in Constantinople hung there until its transfer to the Louvre in 1885, replaced by a copy. The Salle de 1792 is the only surviving room of several once devoted to the Revolution. The Galerie des Batailles holds 36 large historical paintings and 82 busts of French military leaders killed in battle.

Visitors can explore the galleries in the attic spaces of both wings on their own or join guided tours to better understand specific rooms and collections. It is best to plan for several hours to view the works at a comfortable pace, since the exhibition is quite extensive.

The Battles Gallery, 120 metres long, holds 36 large historical paintings and 82 busts of French military leaders who died in battle. Its zenithal lighting was conceived with the help of architect Pierre Fontaine. Most of the museum's galleries are not permanently open to the public.