(NEXSTAR)—The historic Palace of Versailles, just southwest of Paris, will host the equestrian events for the 2024 Summer Olympics. It’s the most visited palace in all of France with thousands of visitors each day.
The luxurious palace boasts a rich history dating back to the 17th century, spanning nearly 2,000 acres and containing 2,300 bedrooms. It was the main home of royalty for more than a century, including Marie Antoinette.
Versailles served as a hunting lodge, a seat of power and eventually, a museum.
Back in the day, members of the Royal Court had an array of activities to keep them entertained. They could watch a sword fight in the palace’s marble courtyard, attend a music concert in the royal chapel or enjoy a royal celebration in the Hall of Mirrors.
The palace’s Hall of Mirrors is famous for its stunning ornamentation. It’s also where the 1919 Treaty of Versailles was signed, putting an end to World War I.
Equestrian and modern pentathlon events will take place in the palace’s lush gardens from July 26 through August 11.
The palace will remain open to the public during the Olympic Games.
