A Palace fit for a Queen

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Today was our free day in Paris, so I knew I just had to travel to Versailles! And wow, that place is magnificent! It is amazing to see all of the details and delicacies within the architecture and landscape. Before going I did not know much about Versailles and what it was used for. In 1682, Versailles was the center of political power as Louis XIV reigned over France. I found it to be very interesting to see how the palace transformed and was used for different purposes during specific times. After the French Revolution the royal family was forced to move back to the capital. But Versailles still stands today as the image for the power of the monarchy. I have noticed in the past few days how there are many subtle signs of the monarchy within Paris. Obviously, Versailles is not very subtle at all, but it was upon arriving at the chateau and hearing about the palace that I realized how the royalty used buildings to proclaim power.

I am personally fascinated with the life of Marie-Antoinette. Though I have never done much research about her I have pieced things together to come to a common understanding of her history and the timeline that it laid out. I found it very interesting that she had her on personal chateau. But I learned that she was originally from Austria and desired to have a place that resembled the style from back home without hurting her power in France. That is why the gardens at her chateau are much more botanical and whimsical rather than the stoic and crisp gardens of the Versailles Palace. 

Honestly, even though it is so historically inaccurate I couldn't help but wander around Versailles thinking about this all day....

I thoroughly enjoyed my day as I leisurely walked the palace corridors visiting the famous hall of mirrors and the many drawing rooms. It sparked my interest to continue learning about the past of the French monarchy and the procession leading up to the French Revolution. 

After spending a whole day exploring Versailles, the group met back up for dinner with OU Alumni located in Paris. We ate at a wonderful restaurant with fresh vegetables and meat trays. It was very tasty! And it was great to witness OU Alumni in action living in another country.

After dinner was over we headed to the Seine river for our canal cruise of Paris. This was the most wonderful way to finish off the trip! Though this city has had many heart breaks and trials, the sky still glimmered with hope. It is because of the hope that the city was able to take the once bleak history of those before them and make it into the beautiful story of Paris.

I finished my night with a strawberry crepe underneath the glittering Eiffel Tower at midnight. All is right in the world.

xoxo,
Claire Marie