Versailles

He loved to hunt. So why not?

Louis XIII moved the royal residence – unprecedented – from Paris to Versailles. A heavily wooded area. Perfect for hunting deer, wild boar, partridge, and pheasant.

Taking over 20 years to construct. The remaining building, gardens, and general estate are more than impressive. It is no wonder there was a revolution.

Lived in by Louis the 13th, 14th, and 15th until the end of the monarchy. As we knew it. The final Louis and his Austrian wife, Marie Antoinette, were ultimately captured from Versailles. Imprisoned. And beheaded in Paris. Giving rise to the famed Napoleon.

The entire country of China (I swear) toured the building with us. Unfortunately we weren’t left any time for the gardens. Or Marie Antoinette’s English cottage. Those will be left for the next visit.