2023 Perfumer’s Garden by Versailles x Maison Francis Kurkdjian – A Perfect Way To Discover Versailles From a Novel Perspective

The Perfumer’s Garden in Versailles now open to the public.

The Perfumer’s Garden in Versailles: A Fragrant Ode to History and Nature.

Steeped in history and renowned for its opulence, the Palace of Versailles has always captivated visitors with its grandeur. Now, thanks to a collaboration between the Trianon gardeners and Maison Francis Kurkdjian, a new enchanting space called “Le Jardin du Parfumeur” – the Perfumer’s Garden – has emerged within the Trianon Estate. This extraordinary garden, which is now open to the public, immerses visitors in the scents and stories that once perfumed the royal court.

Flowers and fragrances played an integral role in the daily life of the Versailles court, earning it the distinction of being the birthplace of perfume-making. In homage to this illustrious past, the Château has dedicated three distinct areas within the Perfumer’s Garden, each with its own unique identity.

“The Garden of Curiosities” welcomes visitors in front of the Orangerie, showcasing an impressive array of floral species. This colorful tapestry of flowers delights the senses and transports visitors to a bygone era. As one strolls along the path of “Under the Trees,” the blooming Japanese cherry trees create a picturesque scene, evoking a sense of tranquility and natural beauty. Lastly, “The Secret Garden” beckons with an intimate ambiance, inviting visitors to explore hidden corners and uncover hidden fragrant treasures.

The creation of the Perfumer’s Garden is the result of a remarkable collaboration between the talented Trianon gardeners and Maison Francis Kurkdjian. Together, they have carefully curated a collection of hundreds of fragrant plants, combining traditional species like roses and jasmine with unexpected and delightful surprises. Visitors will encounter plants with scents ranging from luscious chocolate to crisp apple, offering a sensory experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

In this remarkable tableau of nature, there are also plants known for their unique olfactory characteristics. Some emit unpleasant odors, while others, such as hyacinth, peony, and violet, possess “mute” or silent flowers, requiring their scents to be meticulously recreated synthetically for use in fragrances. This serves as a reminder of the intricate craftsmanship and artistry involved in the world of perfumery.

The Perfumer’s Garden presents an extraordinary opportunity to discover the splendor of Versailles from a fresh and captivating perspective. By exploring the garden’s fragrant paths, visitors can immerse themselves in the history, art, and importance of fragrances at the royal court, experiencing firsthand the scents that once enchanted kings and queens.

To embark on this olfactory journey and reserve a visit to the Trianon Estate, please visit the official Château de Versailles website.

Read also about 2022 Perfumer’s Garden project: Versailles’ gardeners and Francis Kurkdjian unveil unique Perfumer’s Garden

Versailles has a rich history of undertaking projects that celebrate its natural beauty and historical significance.

Over the years, the palace has introduced various initiatives that echo the spirit of the Perfumer’s Garden, engaging visitors in immersive experiences that highlight different aspects of Versailles’ heritage. Here are a few notable examples:

The Queen’s Hamlet (Hameau de la Reine): Built for Marie Antoinette in the late 18th century, the Queen’s Hamlet is a charming rustic retreat within the grounds of Versailles. Inspired by the pastoral ideal, this idyllic village features a farm, a lake, and a collection of picturesque cottages surrounded by gardens and fields. The Queen’s Hamlet aimed to recreate an authentic rural setting, providing a peaceful escape from the formalities of court life.

The Grand Trianon Gardens: Located near the Petit Trianon, the Grand Trianon is a beautiful palace surrounded by elegant gardens. These gardens were designed to complement the architectural style of the palace and offer a harmonious blend of green spaces, fountains, and flowerbeds. The Grand Trianon Gardens showcase a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere compared to the grandeur of the main palace, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature in a tranquil setting.

Musical Fountains Shows: One of the most popular events at Versailles is the Musical Fountains Show. During the summer months, the gardens come alive with the rhythmic movement of water, accompanied by classical music. This spectacle showcases the ingenuity of the garden’s hydraulic system, which was a marvel of engineering in its time. The Musical Fountains Show offers visitors a chance to experience Versailles’ gardens in a dynamic and multisensory way.

These projects, like the Perfumer’s Garden, aim to provide visitors with unique and immersive experiences that showcase different facets of Versailles’ rich history and natural surroundings.