Discover how the Palace of Versailles used science as a tool of power in this illuminating new exhibition.
From iconic royal residence of the past to Olympic and Paralympic venue today, the Palace of Versailles is famous around the world for its opulent architecture and rich history. In the 17th and 18th centuries, it also became a major site of scientific thinking. Now open until April 2025, Versailles: Science and Splendour explores the vitally important role science played at the Palace.
Developed with support from the expert advisor, the Palace of Versailles, the exhibition reveals the meeting of art and science in the court and showcases more than 120 fascinating objects, from the extravagant to the everyday, many of which have never been displayed in the UK before.
Visitors will be transported to the world of the French royal court to discover spectacular objects including Louis XV’s rhinoceros, an extraordinarily detailed map of the moon by Jean-Dominique Cassini and the world’s most famous watch, designed for Marie Antoinette, which represents the pinnacle of artistic ingenuity and engineering. The exhibition also tells the stories of significant figures associated with the pursuit of knowledge at Versailles, including the pioneering Madame du Coudray, who trained thousands of midwives across rural France.
Anna Ferrari, Lead Curator of Versailles: Science and Splendour, said, 'We are delighted to be bringing Versailles to London in this new exhibition which invites visitors to discover an unusual but crucial side of the Palace's history and grandeur. This exhibition will reveal fascinating stories of science at Versailles through more than a hundred treasures, highlighting the relationship between science and power.'
Don’t miss your chance to explore the fascinating scientific side to Versailles’ story in Versailles: Science and Splendour, open at the Science Museum until Monday 21 April 2025. The exhibition is generously supported by BNP Paribas (Associate Sponsor), Sir Sydney Lipworth KC and Lady Lipworth CBE, and The Michael Marks Charitable Trust.
The exhibition is accompanied by a new book, Versailles: Science and Splendour, edited by curator Anna Ferrari. Published by Scala, the book delves further into the surprising stories of science at the royal French court. The book is available from the Science Museum shop and website
Versailles: Science and Splendour
12 December 2024 – 21 April 2025
Science Museum, Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London, SW7 2DD
Open Daily 10.00am - 18.00
Ticketed, £12; 11 and under go free
Tickets: Events | Science Museum
Further Information: Versailles: Science and Splendour | Science Museum