Marie Antoinette's Ancient Grounds Host Olympic Competitions

The esteemed equestrian Olympians competing at the 2024 Summer Games in Paris, France, are preparing for their final competitions on the same grounds where French royalty, including King Louis XIV, Louis XVI, and his wife, Marie Antoinette, among others, once resided before the fall of the monarchy.

Elite horseback riders from around the gardens of Château de Versailles have won world championships at the Olympic Games in Paris, which began on July 27.

On Tuesday, equestrian athletes will conclude their competitions at the palace's expansive outdoor arena with individual jumping events.

Currently, Germany is in first place with three gold medals, while Great Britain is in second place with two.

The Olympic Games have been held in Paris three times: in 1900, 1924, and 2024.

In 1924, the Olympic Games were held in Versailles, and the United States won a total of 99 medals, including 45 golds, 27 silvers, and 27 bronzes. This put Team USA in first place among the 30 participating countries.

At Versailles, only men participated in shooting events, and Team USA won five gold medals in sports shooting.

In this year's equestrian competitions, both individual and team finalists left the judges speechless during the eventing, dressage, and jumping horseback riding events held amidst the palace gardens.

History of the Palace of Versailles

According to the Palace of Versailles' website, Louis XIII discovered the palace while on a hunting retreat on Aug. 24, 1607. A decade later, he returned to construct a hunting lodge and find peace from his wife, Anne of Austria.

At the age of three, Louis XIV, son of Louis XIII and Anne, first visited the château at Versailles. Later, he became the architect and added historical elements to the château, making it a remarkable architectural achievement in France.

During Louis XIV's reign in the late 1600s and early 1700s, the château became a hub for elaborate parties and ceremonies.

In the years following his death, Versailles was neglected and nearly abandoned.

In 1722, the royal residence of Versailles was transferred to Louis XV, the great-grandson of Louis XIV, who then modernized the château by constructing private spaces within it.

Despite their primary residence being outside the palace, Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette hosted lavish gatherings during their reign.

From 1789-1799, political and societal resistance led to the French Revolution.

In 1789, the French people overthrew the monarchy due to the class disparities and extravagance of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, marking the end of a century-long reign in Versailles.

In 1837, Château de Versailles was inaugurated as a national museum.

Since its discovery in the 17th century, the Palace of Versailles has witnessed numerous fascinating and significant events.

In 1764, Mozart was invited to perform for Louis XV during a private visit to Versailles, as stated on the château's website.

In 1783, the Montgolfier brothers launched the first hot air balloon flight at Versailles, with a sheep, duck, and cockerel on board, as stated on the palace's website.

The Palace of Versailles provides rental space for lavish events and welcomes Olympians.

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