The Palace of Versailles is a historic royal residence located just outside of Paris, France. Originally a hunting lodge for King Louis XIII, it was transformed into a grand palace by his son, King Louis XIV, in the 17th century. The palace is renowned for its opulent architecture, beautiful gardens, and significant role in French history. The Versailles Gardens cover approximately 800 hectares and feature intricate landscaping, fountains, and sculptures. The palace served as the center of political power in France until the French Revolution in 1789. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year.