Latona Parterre, French formal garden in Versailles, France.
Latona Parterre is a formal garden with expansive symmetrical flower beds, water basins, and trimmed plants arranged in geometric patterns. The layout centers on a major fountain from which pathways fan out in various directions.
André Le Nôtre designed this garden in 1660 as part of Louis XIV's transformation of Versailles. Its final form took shape by 1685 through successive improvements.
The main fountain tells the story of Latona protecting her divine children from angry mortals, a scene that carried meaning for visitors as a symbol of royal power. The arrangement of water and sculptures creates a narrative space within the garden.
The garden is accessible year-round, though water features operate only between April and October. Visitors should allow plenty of time to walk through the large grounds.
A comprehensive restoration in 2015 returned the garden to its original 17th-century design, including plant species that grew there during Louis XIV's reign. This work allows visitors to experience the space as it appeared centuries ago.
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