Versailles is located just southwest of Paris and is renowned for its opulent Palace of Versailles, a symbol of absolute monarchy and lavish excess during the reign of Louis XIV. The palace, originally a hunting lodge, was transformed by the Sun King into a grandiose residence with sprawling gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. The meticulously landscaped grounds feature ornate fountains, statues, and geometrically arranged flowerbeds, creating a breath-taking backdrop for the palace's Baroque architecture. Beyond its royal history, Versailles today is a vibrant town that blends its storied past with modern amenities, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its historical richness and cultural significance.