Around the turn of the 19^th century, the social theorist

Saint-Simon called Versailles "the saddest of all sites,

devoid of view, woods and water". His assessment is

barely credible today. Through the will of Louis XIV,

assisted by his Minister Colbert, Versailles' gardens

became and today remain the most spectacular and

admirable water display in the world.

Gérard Mabille, head curator of the Château de

Versailles, presents us the history and the secrets of

this spectacular water creation, and invites us to stroll

around the gardens and their groves and fountains.

The work immerses us in the fascinating history of

the Grandes Eaux de Versailles, beautifully illustrated

by engravings and paintings contemporary to the

creation of the installations. Accompanied by the

beautiful photography of Jacques de Givry, the work

then guides readers around Louis XIV's own preferred

itinerary for visiting the water installations, the heart

and soul of Versailles' famous gardens.