Palace of Versailles

Restoration of the Queen's Grove

Created for Marie Antoinette (1755-1793) on the site of the former Labyrinth, which was destroyed at the end of the 18th century, the Queen's Grove was born out of her desire for change. It stands out from the other groves on the estate due to its lack of decoration, offering visitors the richness and diversity of its plant compositions.

Versailles, 78000
France
Project owner

Etablissement public du château, du musée et du domaine national de Versailles (EPV)

Type of operation

Catering

Mission(s)

Complete project management

Diagnostic study conducted in 2017

Surface

19,500 square meters

Amount of work

€1,550,000 excluding tax

Delivery

2019

The Queen's Grove, created for Marie Antoinette on the site of the former Labyrinth destroyed in the 18th century, is distinguished by the richness of its plant composition, without any artificial decorative elements.

 

The diagnostic study conducted in 2017, which included a plant inventory, a phytosanitary analysis, and in-depth historical research, identified the original species and developed a program combining conservation and enrichment. The work focused in particular on restoring the Virginia tulip tree square based on old plans, preserving major trees, enriching the tree and shrub fringes to diversify flowering and foliage, and introducing plants known to have existed in France in the 18th century. At the same time, the restoration of the sanded paths and esplanades incorporated drainage materials and swales directed towards the planted beds, ensuring better runoff management and increased sustainability of the site.

 

The replanting campaign resulted in the introduction of approximately 650 trees (21 species), 6,000 flowering shrubs (46 species), 147 Virginia tulip trees funded by donors, and 600 rose bushes.

Château de Versailles / Versailles

  • Complete restoration of the Queen's hamlet
©THOMAS GARNIER Hamlet00085