The Splendor of Versailles

Episode 3 of The Great Tours: France through the Ages

Discover the remarkable palace of Versailles as the self-contained world of Louis XIV, the "Sun King." Note how the landscaping surrounding the palace symbolizes features of Louis's reign, and how the Versailles court prized royal spectacle and appearances. Take account of Louis's patronage of the arts, and how he and his successor built extravagant private residences within the palace grounds.