Are you planning a trip to Paris and wondering if you can visit the Royal Palace? Well, the answer is both yes and no. Let’s dive into the details.
What is the Royal Palace?
The Royal Palace, also known as the Palais-Royal, is a former royal palace located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. It was originally built for Cardinal Richelieu in the 1630s and later became a residence for French monarchs. Today, it serves as a cultural center with shops, restaurants, theaters, and museums.
Can You Visit the Palais-Royal Courtyard?
Yes! The Palais-Royal courtyard is open to visitors and free to enter. It’s a beautiful spot with manicured gardens, fountains, and black-and-white striped columns that make for great Instagram-worthy photos.
What Can You See in the Palais-Royal Courtyard?
- The Buren Columns: These are 260 black-and-white striped columns that are arranged in a grid pattern. They’re popular among photographers and art enthusiasts.
- The Fountain of Bouchardon: This is a beautiful fountain featuring three sculptures that represent rivers in France.
- The Garden: The courtyard also has beautiful gardens that are perfect for relaxing or having a picnic.
Can You Visit Inside the Royal Palace?
Unfortunately, most of the Palais-Royal interior is not open to visitors as it houses government offices. However, there are two museums located inside that you can visit:
Musée du Louvre – Tuileries Gardens
Located on the ground floor of the northern wing of the Palais-Royal is one of Musée du Louvre’s annexes – Tuileries Gardens. This museum showcases decorative arts from the 17th to the 19th centuries, including furniture, paintings, sculptures, and textiles.
Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac
Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac is a contemporary art gallery located in the southern wing of the Palais-Royal. It features works by renowned artists such as Robert Rauschenberg, Gilbert & George, and Anselm Kiefer.
Conclusion
While you can’t visit much of the Royal Palace’s interior, a visit to its courtyard is well worth your time. The Buren Columns and Fountain of Bouchardon are stunning sights that shouldn’t be missed. And if you’re interested in art, don’t forget to check out the Musée du Louvre – Tuileries Gardens and Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac.