55, bd. JOURDAN

Hall of Mirrors, Versailles.

Though I had been planning on going to Versailles independently for some time, the program I am on had decided to organize an outing to this exemplary historical site through the University. Alas, though the program included a tour of the site and free tickets … the trip occurred on an incredibly cold and foggy day.

The gleaming golden gates of Versailles were all that was visible as you approached the structure, and it literally appeared out from the fog — imposing, regal, and only half as full of tourists as usual.

Even though I was impressed by the royal chambers, the gilded chapels, all of the statues of famous French historical figures, and the numerous halls — the level of exuberance there soon became a bit tiring. Because we were on the guided tour, we passed through each room with a word here and a glance, but the objective was on keeping the flow going and not holding up any groups behind us.

I must say that the Hall of Mirrors really was a spectacular as I had imagined it would be, and the Hall of Battles (I think that’s the name?) which included depictions of French military conquests, was equally not to be missed.

Though I wish the grounds had been in better shape for strolling, getting lost in the maze that is the garden’s construction - especially in the fog - was pretty thrilling. We had hoped to find Marie Antoinette’s summer retreat, but it looked to be closed for the season. So instead we wandered, solitary, through the white (and muddy) expanse of the gardens. It really felt like something out of the third task of the Harry Potter books … but that’s just me being a nerd now.

If I ever do come back to Versailles, it will be in the summer (I’ll have actually packed a lunch) and I’ll be able to stroll the gardens in peace … though possibly surrounded by throngs of tourists. Hmm.

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