The Grand Couvert is a large hall located in the Palace of Versailles, France. It was designed by architect Louis Le Vau and completed in 1678. The hall served as a place for public audiences with the King and Queen of France during the reigns of Louis XIV, XV, and XVI. The name “Grand Couvert” comes from its primary purpose: to provide an open space where members of the court could come together to hear announcements or receive edicts from their rulers.
The Grand Couvert has two levels connected by a grand staircase with eight steps that lead up to the upper level balcony overlooking the main floor below. It is decorated with numerous mirrors and paintings depicting scenes from French history, as well as gilded woodwork along its walls and ceiling. On either side of this grand hall are two rooms – one known as ‘La Grande Galerie’ which contained a library; while the other called ‘Le Salon de la Reine’, was used for private meetings between Marie Antoinette and her closest friends.
The Grand Couvert remains open today for visitors to explore this historic area that once served as an important part of daily life at Versailles during its heyday in 17th century France.