To the south of the city, discover a fascinating district divided into two complementary historic areas: the Old Town, known as Vieux-Versailles, and the Saint-Louis quarter. Together, they form the oldest and most authentic soul of Versailles.
Vieux-Versailles : the cradle of the city
Here once stood the medieval village acquired by Louis XIII, the birthplace of the future royal city. Stroll through its history-filled streets and be charmed by an exceptionally well-preserved heritage.
Architectural treasures await you, such as :
- The Convent of the Récollets, a silent witness to centuries past,
- The Grand Commun, built under Louis XIV to house the court’s kitchens,
- The Foreign Affairs and Navy Pavilion, commissioned by Louis XV.
But the most emblematic site is without doubt the Royal Tennis Court (Salle du Jeu de Paume), where one of the defining moments of the French Revolution unfolded, giving birth to the modern democratic spirit.
Saint-Louis: elegance, gardens, and a market with soul
Just a few steps away, the Saint-Louis quarter rises on the former hunting grounds of Louis XIII’s Parc aux Cerfs, developed from 1685 onwards. Today, it is a lively, elegant district full of contrasts.
Here, make sure to see:
- The imposing Saint-Louis Cathedral (1743–1754), with its magnificent collection of paintings,
- The King’s Kitchen Garden (Potager du Roi), created to supply the immense palace with fresh produce,
- The Carrés Saint-Louis, a unique ensemble of small houses built under Louis XV to host a bustling market, which remains one of the most picturesque in Versailles.
Wandering through the streets of Vieux-Versailles and Saint-Louis is like stepping into centuries of history, art, and local life. Take your time, every corner has a story to tell.
