What secrets lie hidden behind those elegant facades? We’re standing before the Trianon-sous-Bois, an extension of the Grand Trianon, commissioned by Louis XIV himself. While the Grand Trianon was already a haven from the rigid formality of court life, the Trianon-sous-Bois offered an even greater degree of seclusion and privacy. This wing, completed in 1709, speaks of a desire for a simpler, more intimate royal life. Imagine the whispers of hushed conversations and confidential meetings that transpired within these walls. Madame Palatine, sister-in-law to the Sun King, resided here. She described her apartments in vivid letters, detailing a view of the “Springs,” a secluded grove with gurgling streams and hidden nooks perfect for card games and quiet contemplation. The Trianon-sous-Bois, with its air of peaceful retreat, stands as a testament to the multifaceted lives of the royals who called Versailles home. Though much has changed since Louis XIV’s reign, the walls still whisper of a time when kings sought solace away from the glaring spotlight of power.
Église Notre-Dame de l’Air
Beneath what appears to be a simple stone and wood structure lies a history interwoven with faith aviation and community.