Château de Maisons-Laffitte

Step inside the château that sparked a young Louis XIV's passion for grand architecture and set the stage for Versailles. Designed by François Mansart between 1630 and 1651, this masterpiece of French classical style reveals golden-columned vestibules, an ingenious central spiral staircase, and the Empire-style Eagles Apartment prepared for a Napoleonic visit that never came. The building also housed Voltaire, whose personal quarters remain on display. The château is closed on Tuesdays, and a midday break runs from 12:30 to 14:00 — plan to arrive at opening time for an unhurried visit.