During our field study trip to Paris, my study abroad program provided an optional excursion to Versailles (just like the optional trip to the Swiss Alps) to see the famous Palace that served as the seat of political power in France for about 100 years in the 17th-18th century.

The Palace of Versailles is enormous. It features vast gardens, lavish decor, gold leaf everywhere, and extremely detailed interior and exterior architecture. The size and decadence of the place is overwhelming and pretty in the embellished, extravagant way.

Your first entry into the Palace is marked by a long, gilded gate….

My favorite part of the Palace was the extensive garden, full of walking paths and fountains. Here’s a picture of one section of the garden:

I loved the endlessness and simple lines of the landscape. It was a cold day during our visit, but I bet this garden is even more breathtaking in the springtime….

I noticed a lot of clocks around Versailles as well, both inside and outside. They make a great architectural detail….

In part II, I’ll share some photos from inside the Palace!