Versailles: Science and Splendour

'Versailles: Science and Splendour' explores the vitally important role science played at the Palace and beyond. The FHS has arranged a special curatorial tour with Matthew Howles, Associate Curator at the Science Museum.

Discover how the Palace of Versailles used science as a tool of power in this illuminating new exhibition. The Palace of Versailles is famous around the world for its opulent architecture and rich history. But in the 17th and 18th centuries, it also became a major site of scientific thinking and practice. Visitors will be transported to the world of the French royal court to discover spectacular objects of astronomy, horology, natural history, engineering, medicine and more - many on display in the UK for the very first time. See, for example, globes from Louis XVI's library, Claude-Siméon Passemant's breathtaking 'Pendule de la création du monde' presented to Louis XV, and arguably the world's most famous watch, designed for Marie-Antoinette, which represents the pinnacle of artistic ingenuity and engineering.

For more information, please visit Versailles: Science and Splendour | Science Museum.

Print, ascent of a Montgolfier balloon, 1783 © Science Museum Group