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Showing posts from August 3, 2006

Views of Paris (3) - Château de Versailles 巴黎掠影(3)——凡爾賽宮

Versailles came into prominence since the time of King Louis XIV, one of the most victorious monarchs in French history, and reflected the glory and splendour of that time. The interior décor is as spectacular as other famous castles or palaces, but what make it stand out from the rest are its auditorium (theatre) and its garden. The auditorium boasts a gold-glistened interior with superior acoustics (tourists were asked to keep quiet inside!) There are 3 levels of spectator stands, with separate rooms (like today’s corporate boxes) for royals and VIPs. The room for the king is specially fitted with a passageway that allows the king to enter and leave any time he pleases without disturbing or being noticed by others. The lowest level of the spectator stand and the stage can be refitted according to different needs. For example in one of the many ceremonies, the stage was expanded for an equestrian display to the amazement of the invited guests. A very thoughtfully designed auditorium!