Landmark

Salle du Jeu de Paume

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The Salle du Jeu de Paume is a modest building that holds immense historical significance. It was here, on June 20, 1789, that deputies of the Third Estate, locked out of their usual meeting hall, gathered and swore an oath not to disband until France had a new constitution. This act, known as the Tennis Court Oath, is considered the birth of the French Revolution. Today, the court is preserved as a national monument. Visitors can stand in the very room where history was made, viewing a large painting by Jacques-Louis David depicting the oath (though the original is in the Louvre, a replica hangs here). The space is simple, with wooden floors and high ceilings, evoking the tension of that day. Informational panels in French and English explain the events. It's a must-visit for history buffs and a poignant stop on any Versailles itinerary.

Don't miss

  • The replica of Jacques-Louis David's painting 'The Tennis Court Oath'.
  • The original wooden floor and walls where the oath was taken.
  • Informational exhibits detailing the events of June 20, 1789.
  • The sense of history in this preserved, simple space.
  • Its proximity to the Palace of Versailles, allowing for a combined visit.

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Ways to visit Salle du Jeu de Paume

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

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