Bassin d'Apollo, Versailles

The Bassin d'Apollon, nestled in the opulent grounds of the Palace of Versailles, is a majestic fountain that stands as a testament to the grandeur of French classical art and the power of the Sun King, Louis XIV. This iconic fountain, constructed between 1668 and 1671, is a focal point in the palace's extensive gardens, designed by the celebrated landscape architect André Le Nôtre.

Set along the primary axis of the gardens, the Bassin d'Apollon features a gilded sculpture group representing Apollo, the sun god, emerging from the water in his chariot drawn by four horses, an allusion to the king's own emblematic association with the deity. The work of the renowned sculptor Jean-Baptiste Tuby, the figures were cast in lead before being gilded, creating a dazzling spectacle that aligns with the grandiose aesthetic of the surrounding royal residence.

The fountain is not only a marvel of artistic achievement but also an engineering marvel of its time. It forms part of an intricate network of fountains and water features that are supplied by water from distant sources, reflecting the technological advancements of the 17th century.

Visitors to Versailles are drawn to the Bassin d'Apollon for its historical significance and sheer beauty. It plays a central role during the palace's famous fountain shows, where the waters dance to the rhythm of baroque music, reviving the splendor of Louis XIV's reign.