In 1772, a glamorous figure, Madame du Barry, purchased a piece of land in Versailles. This land would become the Hôtel de Madame du Barry. It was intended not as her primary residence, but as a place to house her staff. She commissioned the renowned architect Claude-Nicolas Ledoux to construct magnificent stables on the property. The Hôtel de Madame du Barry became a symbol of her status and wealth. It reflected her close relationship with King Louis XV. However, their time together wouldn’t last. After the king’s death in 1775, Madame du Barry was forced to sell the Hôtel de Madame du Barry. The buyer was the Comte de Provence, brother of the new king, Louis XVI. The Comte de Provence continued construction on the property. He hired architect Jean-François Chalgrin to oversee the work. The Hôtel de Madame du Barry took on a new life. It was later used as military quarters during the French Revolution. In 1902, the estate was divided. The stables were transformed into a police headquarters. The remaining part of the Hôtel de Madame du Barry was eventually acquired by the Versailles Chamber of Commerce and Industry in 1937. Today, the Hôtel de Madame du Barry stands as a reminder of its fascinating past. It houses beautiful decor and artwork. These items offer a glimpse into the life of Madame du Barry. She was the last mistress of Louis XV. The Hôtel de Madame du Barry is accessible through guided tours organized by the Versailles Tourist Office.
Vase aux têtes de faunes et termes Ornamental vase
Marvelous isn’t it? This stunning Vase aux têtes de faunes et termes. Before you stands a masterpiece of 17th-century artistry.