Museum of the History of France, National museum in Palace of Versailles, France
The Museum of French History occupies multiple wings of the Palace of Versailles, displaying more than 6,000 paintings and 3,000 sculptures related to French history.
King Louis-Philippe I established the museum in 1837, transforming the abandoned royal residence into a grand showcase of French historical achievements and national reconciliation.
The collection includes artworks from royal collections, private donations, and commissioned pieces, presenting a chronological journey through French history from its origins to modern times.
The North and South Wing attics house the main painting collections, while guided tours provide access to specific rooms including the Battles Gallery and Empire Rooms.
The museum preserves extensive documentation of French history through art, with the Chimay attic displaying works from the Revolution through the Consulate period.
Location: Versailles
Official opening: 1837
Part of: The Public Establishment of the Palace, Museum and National Estate of Versailles, Palace of Versailles
Website: http://museehistoiredefrance.fr
GPS coordinates: 48.80430,2.12085
Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:42
The Versailles region and its surroundings feature a notable collection of historic sites, museums, and landscaped areas that showcase centuries of French history. Beyond the famous chateau, visitors can explore sites like the Queen's Hameau in the Versailles park, a rustic retreat of Marie Antoinette, or the Château de Malmaison, which preserves furnishings and decor from the First Empire. The Napoléon III Apartments at the Louvre demonstrate the splendor of the Second Empire, while the Domaine de Marly-le-Roi reflects the grandeur of Louis XIV's reign. Local museums host diverse collections, from Rodin's sculptures displayed in his former private residence to Maurice Denis's symbolist works at the Saint-Germain-en-Laye Priory. The Gustave Moreau Museum holds over 1,300 paintings and 5,000 drawings in the artist's former home. Gardens are also a major draw: Sceaux Park stretches over a mile with 17th-century geometric pathways, while Albert Kahn Gardens offer a journey through Japanese, French, and English landscape styles. These sites allow visitors to explore French cultural history through architecture, decorative arts, and garden art.
Palace of Versailles
63 m
Hall of Mirrors
70 m
Park of Versailles
1 km
Galerie des Batailles
16 m
Appartement du roi
54 m
Bust of Louis XIV
168 m
Chapel of Versailles Palace
123 m
Petit appartement du roi
62 m
Salle des Croisades
184 m
Grand appartement de la reine
30 m
Salon d'Hercule
96 m
Petit appartement de la reine
26 m
Equestrian Statue of Louis XIV
168 m
Grille royale of Versailles
105 m
Cour de Marbre du Château de Versailles
46 m
Aile du Midi
111 m
Grand commun
174 m
Diana Lounge
82 m
Pavillon Dufour
69 m
Aile du Nord
172 m
Cour royale du Château de Versailles
61 m
Palace and Park of Versailles
129 m
Cour d'Honneur
183 m
Cour des Cerfs
41 m
Vase de la Paix
86 m
Fontaine du Point du Jour
203 m
Galerie des Batailles
104 m
La Marne in bassin du Nord
189 mReviews
Real people, real opinions — but not verified.
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes