Hall of Mirrors 

There are certain places that almost define a first trip to France, and the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles is certainly one of them. Walking into this magnificent gallery for the first time feels almost surreal. The scale, chandeliers, mirrors, gold detailing and endless reflections create an atmosphere that photographs cannot fully capture.  

Built during the reign of King Louis XIV, the Hall of Mirrors was designed to display the wealth and power of France at the height of the monarchy. Stretching more than 240 feet long, the gallery contains 357 mirrors placed opposite towering windows overlooking the gardens of Versailles. In the 17th century, mirrors themselves were symbols of enormous wealth and prestige, making this room one of the greatest displays of royal power in Europe.  

Standing inside the hall, it is easy to imagine the royal ceremonies, diplomatic receptions and elaborate gatherings that once filled this space. The Hall the Mirrors also witnessed pivotal moments in world history. One of the most famous was the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919, officially ending World War I between Germany and the Allied Powers. The choice of this room was symbolic, as Germany had proclaimed the creation of the German Empire in this same hall in 1871 following the Franco-Prussian War.

There are certain landmarks that become part of our imagination long before we ever see them in person, and Versailles is one of those places.