Discover how the Palace of Versailles used science as a tool of power in this illuminating new exhibition.
From iconic royal residence of the past, to Olympic and Paralympic venue today, the Palace of Versailles is famous around the world for its opulent architecture and rich history. In the 17th and 18th centuries, it also became a major site of scientific thinking. Now open until April 2025, Versailles: Science and Splendour explores the vitally important role science played at the Palace.
Visitors will be transported to the world of the French royal court to discover spectacular objects including Louis XV’s rhinoceros, an extraordinarily detailed map of the moon by Jean-Dominique Cassini and the world’s most famous watch, designed for Marie Antoinette, which represents the pinnacle of artistic ingenuity and engineering. The exhibition also tells the stories of significant figures associated with the pursuit of knowledge at Versailles, including the pioneering Madame du Coudray, who trained thousands of midwives across rural France.
Anna Ferrari, Lead Curator of Versailles: Science and Splendour, said:
'We are delighted to be bringing Versailles to London in this new exhibition which invites visitors to discover an unusual but crucial side of the Palace's history and grandeur. This exhibition will reveal fascinating stories of science at Versailles through more than a hundred treasures, highlighting the relationship between science and power.'
Don’t miss your chance to explore the fascinating scientific side to Versailles’ story in Versailles: Science and Splendour. This new exhibition has been created with support from our Expert Advisor, the Palace of Versailles.
Scientific treasures from the court of Versailles
Gift vouchers
Treat friends and family to the gift of Versailles: Science and Splendour with our e-vouchers, also available for museum favourites including Astronights, Wonderlab and Power Up.
Please ensure you check restrictions for Versailles: Science and Splendour before purchasing any gift vouchers.
Ticket information
More to explore
Versailles, in Every Sense
Our partner, the French Institute in London, will be presenting Versailles, in Every Sense, a season revisiting the Sun King’s court through dance, baroque music, cinema, fragrance and fashion, from January-March 2025.
Find out more about Versailles in Every Sense.
Unlock Versailles like never before on TV5MONDEplus
Discover Versailles, l'autre visite, a series revealing untold stories and hidden secrets of the iconic palace. Watch for free on TV5MONDEplus, the official media partner of Versailles: Science and Splendour and the ultimate destination for curious minds.
All episodes available for free
Header image credits:
- Optical microscope, by Claude-Siméon Passemant, with bronzework attributed to Jacques and Philippe Caffieri © Château de Versailles, Dist. GrandPalaisRmn/Christophe Foui
- Clock of the Creation of the World, designed by Claude-Siméon Passemant © Musée du Louvre, Dist. GrandPalaisRmn/Thierry Ollivier
- Eclipsarium, designed by Ole Rømer and made by Isaac Thuret © Bibliothèque nationale de France, Paris