The Gallery of Great Battles at the Palace of Versailles offers an extraordinary glimpse into France’s military history.
Designed to showcase the nation’s triumphs from the reign of Clovis to the era of Napoleon, this remarkable gallery was created by Louis-Philippe
As one of the most significant historical galleries ever built, it highlights 15 centuries of military success.
The gallery was officially opened on June 10, 1837, as part of the Museum of the History of France.
How Big is It?
Prepare to be amazed by the sheer scale of this room!
The Gallery of Great Battles is the largest room in the entire Palace of Versailles, stretching an incredible 120 meters long and 13 meters wide.
It occupies almost the whole first floor of the South Wing of the palace, making it impossible to miss.
What to See
Inside the gallery, you’ll find 33 grand paintings depicting a significant battle that has shaped French history.
These artworks cover battles from various French dynasties, including the Merovingians, Carolingians, Capetians, Valois, and Bourbons.
Louis-Philippe made sure to include key victories from the French Revolution and the Empire era as well.
Notable paintings include:
- Austerlitz by Gérard, commissioned by Napoleon himself.
- The Entry of Henry IV into Paris by Gérard, commissioned during the Restoration period.
- The Battle of Bouvines, by Horace Vernet, was also commissioned during the Restoration.
- The Battle of Fontenoy, by Horace Vernet, was commissioned during the Restoration.
The architecture of the gallery is just as impressive as the paintings themselves. Designed by Pierre-Léonard Fontaine, the gallery’s structure, with its columns, glass ceilings, and decorations in marble and gold, evokes the grandeur of the Louvre’s Grande Galerie.
The gallery is more than just a collection of paintings; it was intended as a pantheon to honor national glory.
Alongside the paintings, you’ll find 80 busts of officers who perished in battle and bronze tablets listing the names of princes, constables, marshals, and admirals who were killed or wounded in the service of France.
Timeless Glory of the Gallery
Since its opening in 1837, the Gallery of Great Battles has remained largely unchanged, with all original artworks still in place.
It is a magnificent example of Louis-Philippe’s vision for Versailles and a remarkable 19th-century museum project.
If you’re visiting Versailles, don’t miss the chance to walk through this awe-inspiring gallery and immerse yourself in France’s rich military heritage.
