Grand and Lesser Stables

Abstract

South elevation; When the Chateau of Versailles became the official residence, Jules Hardouin-Mansart built twin edifices designed to house not only the king's 600 horses, but also equerries, grooms, musicians, and pages. These buildings are remarkable for their size, the nobility of their architecture, and the quality of their decorative carving. Standing opposite the chateau, they harmoniously frame the broad square known as the Place d'Armes. The name Grand Stables has nothing to do with size, being identical to the Lesser Stables, but rather to the fact that it was the domain of the Grand Equerry who was responsible for the riding horses perfectly trained for hunting or war and used exclusively by kings and princes. Source: Château de Versailles [website]; http://www.chateauversailles.fr/en/ (accessed 1/12/2008