Royal Tennis Court Salle du Jeu de Paume
Site of the pivotal Tennis Court Oath, a cornerstone of the French Revolution, offering free entry and a deep dive into history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds for a better experience
Royal Tennis Court Salle du Jeu de Paume
Best Time
Fewer crowds for a better experience

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Site of the pivotal Tennis Court Oath, a cornerstone of the French Revolution, offering free entry and a deep dive into history.
"A must for history buffs, this free site echoes with the dawn of the French Revolution."
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy free entry to this significant historical site.
History Buffs Rejoice! 📜
Immerse yourself in the dawn of the French Revolution.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tennis Court Oath Site
Stand where French deputies swore not to disband until a constitution was established. A truly historic spot.

Busts of Revolutionary Figures
See likenesses of key figures like Mirabeau and Abbé Grégoire who shaped the French Republic.
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Planning Your Visit
Understand the History
Entry & Language
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Insider Tips
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Opinions on visiting Versailles Palace
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy free entry to this significant historical site.
History Buffs Rejoice! 📜
Immerse yourself in the dawn of the French Revolution.
Versailles - our experience, not like website
Versaille question regarding extra areas to visit
Check Tour Language 🗣️
Confirm tour language beforehand to avoid issues, especially if not fluent in French.
Versailles Palace visit, what to expect?
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy free entry to this significant historical site.
History Buffs Rejoice! 📜
Immerse yourself in the dawn of the French Revolution.
Check Tour Language 🗣️
Confirm tour language beforehand to avoid issues, especially if not fluent in French.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Royal Tennis Court for its free entry and profound historical significance, especially for those interested in the French Revolution. However, some have encountered issues with guided tours being exclusively in French, leading to disappointment.
"A historical site that evolved over the years on its function."
Tzu-Liang Yen
"The beginning of the French Republic here in 1789 and the dawn of conservatism, liberalism and socialism.
Free entry. Not much to read but interesting to see the dawn of French Revolution. A must for History buffs."
Bruce Fair
"totally disappointed, we booked and have payed a guided tour but the officer refused us just because we can’t speak French! No refund! Rediculous!"
Michael Sheen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Royal Tennis Court is located in Versailles. You can reach Versailles by RER C train from Paris, which is a popular and convenient option for many visitors.
While the gardens are vast, the Royal Tennis Court is a distinct building. It's advisable to use a map or GPS to navigate to its specific location within the Versailles estate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Royal Tennis Court itself is free, making it an accessible historical site for all visitors.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official Versailles website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Guided tours are sometimes available, but be aware that they may be conducted in French only. It's crucial to confirm the language and availability in advance.
Unfortunately, some visitors have reported being denied entry to tours if they couldn't speak French, with no refund offered. Always verify the tour language.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
This is the site of the Tennis Court Oath in 1789, a foundational event of the French Revolution where deputies vowed to create a constitution.
Inside, you'll find a beautifully restored room and busts of prominent revolutionary figures like Mirabeau and Abbé Grégoire.
There isn't extensive reading material on-site, but the historical significance of the location speaks volumes for history enthusiasts.
Even if you're not a history expert, the atmosphere and the understanding of its role in a pivotal moment of French history can be quite impactful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit as a story about brave people standing up for their beliefs. Focusing on the Tennis Court Oath as a moment where people made a promise to create a better future could resonate. It's best paired with other, more visually stimulating attractions within the Versailles estate to create a well-rounded family outing.
📜 History Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the busts of revolutionary figures like Mirabeau and Abbé Grégoire, who played crucial roles in shaping the new republic. While there isn't a wealth of text, the historical resonance of the space is immense. It's a place to contemplate the origins of modern political ideologies and the fight for fundamental rights.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tennis Court Oath: A Revolutionary Spark
Visiting the court today offers a chance to feel the weight of history. While the interior is relatively sparse, the very walls echo with the determination and revolutionary spirit of those deputies. It's a place that allows you to connect directly with the origins of modern French political thought and the fight for liberty and equality.
For those interested in the dawn of conservatism, liberalism, and socialism, this site is a tangible link to those early ideological battles. It’s a powerful reminder of how ordinary spaces can become extraordinary backdrops for world-changing events.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
It's highly recommended to verify the language of any guided tour you plan to book well in advance. If your French is limited, focusing on self-guided exploration of the site might be a more enjoyable experience. The historical significance is palpable even without a guided commentary, allowing you to appreciate the atmosphere and the gravity of the events that transpired here.
For those planning a visit to Versailles, remember that the Royal Tennis Court is just one part of a much larger estate. While the gardens are extensive, the court itself is a focused historical stop. Consider it a key point of interest for understanding the revolutionary period.
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