The Hall of Mirrors was the highlight of the palace in the 1700’s as it was something that had never been seen before. Not only does this hall leave you in awe, but the views from this part of the palace overlooking the gardens is also amazing. seventeen mirror-clad arches that reflect the seventeen arcaded windows that overlook the gardens. Each arch contains twenty-one mirrors. The Hall of Mirrors primarily served as a social space for various funtions including royal engagements, births, marriages, and costume balls.
“In the 17th century, mirrors were among the most expensive items to possess at the time; the Venetian Republic held the monopoly on the manufacture of mirrors. In order to maintain the integrity of his philosophy of mercantilism, which required that all items used in the decoration of Versailles be made in France, Jean-Baptiste Colbert enticed several workers from Venice to make mirrors at the Manufacture royale de glaces de miroirs. According to legend, in order to keep its monopoly, the government of the Venetian Republic sent agents to France to poison the workers whom Colbert had brought to France.” (cite)
If you want more information about visiting the palace, I listed some information below:
- The Palace is open every day from 9am-6:30pm (18:30) except Mondays
- The Park and Gardens are open every day. The access is free except during Musical Fountains Shows and Musical Gardens.