The Ménagerie at the Palace of Versailles is a historic menagerie that was built in 1662 by Louis XIV. It houses over 800 animals, including exotic species such as lions, tigers, elephants and camels. The purpose of the ménagerie was to demonstrate Louis XIV’s power and wealth to visitors from around the world. The ménagerie has been home to many famous animals throughout history, including a black panther owned by Marie Antoinette and an elephant named Castor gifted to Louis XVI by Benin King Ghezo. Today, the ménagerie is still open for public visits and serves as a reminder of France’s grandeur during its reign under Louis XIV.