Shown here is the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles. This is probably the most famous room in the palace because of its distinctive chandeliers, the murals covering the ceiling, and the huge windows and mirrors (which were, at this time, one of the most expensive things one could own, and there are 21 of them here.) Although functionally the Hall connected the king's chambers and the queen's, it served as a waiting place for the court to greet the king, a place for parties to be held, and a place to intimidate foreign dignitaries who visited the monarchs as well. This room is just an example. Over the course of the three generations of kings who lived here, this chateau and its grounds incurred so much expense that it basically bankrupted the French monarchy, and even helped lead to the French Revolution.
I traveled here during a trip to England and France while in high school. My biggest impression was that every single aspect of this palace and its grounds, including this room, was completely over-the-top luxurious. On the other hand, as one can still see today, this palace was a huge feat in architecture--not only this room, but the gardens, palaces, sculptures, chapels, and chambers. It is overwhelming, huge, ridiculous, and amazing to visit, and I would recommend going here to anyone. (I'm actually going back and seeing this again in a month.)
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