The Grand Trianon is built from 'marble of the sun,' a rare pinkish variety sourced from the Languedoc region.
Napoleon I refurnished the entire palace in 1810 to suit his marriage to Empress Marie-Louise.
The Gallery of the Cotelle contains 24 paintings by Jean Cotelle representing the groves and fountains of the Versailles gardens as they appeared in the 17th century.
The structure stands on the site of the 'Porcelain Trianon,' a small chateau decorated with Delft-style faïence that was demolished in 1687.
It remains an official residence of the French President, used for hosting heads of state during diplomatic visits.
The peristyle was originally an open-air corridor, but was enclosed with glass walls in the 18th century to protect guests from the elements.
The Grand Trianon is an architectural ensemble located within the Palace of Versailles estate, distinct for its pink marble facade. Commissioned by Louis XIV in 1687, it was designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart to serve as a private retreat from the rigid court life of the main palace. The building is characterized by its colonnaded peristyle, which connects the main wings and provides an open transition to the gardens. Its interior preserves the Empire-style decor commissioned by Napoleon I, who frequently resided here. The site is part of the Trianon Estate, which also encompasses the Petit Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet. The gardens surrounding the Grand Trianon feature formal flowerbeds and fountains designed in the French classical style. It currently functions as a presidential residence for official state guests of the French Republic. The building is located within the administrative commune of Versailles, distinct from the town of Saint-Cyr-l'École despite the proximity. Visitors move through a sequence of rooms including the Hall of Mirrors, the Gallery of the Cotelle, and the apartments of the Empress.
The peristyle area, which offers a symmetric view through the columns toward the gardens.
Combine your visit with the Petit Trianon and the Queen's Hamlet to see the full scope of the estate.
Check the official website for state protocol closures before traveling, as the palace is occasionally restricted for government events.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the distance between the main palace and the Trianon estate is significant.
Do not attempt to walk from the main palace entrance without considering the 30-minute walk; use the internal estate transit if available.
Closed on Mondays; occasionally closed for official state functions.
Photography is permitted without flash; large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside.
