The Marlborough Tower is one of the most emblematic buildings in the Queen's Hamlet. Its remarkable external staircase, which is essential to the tower's stability and access, now bears the marks of time and the elements. The restoration of this feature is vital to preserve the integrity and ensure the long-term future of this unique site.
The Marlborough Tower
© EPV / Thomas Garnier
A tower at the heart of the queen's hamlet
Built between 1783 and 1787 to the designs of the royal architect Richard Mique, the Marlborough Tower is one of the most emblematic structures in the Queen's Hamlet. Its picturesque external staircase makes it a particularly distinctive feature among the ornamental buildings commissioned by Marie-Antoinette around the Grand Lac, based on a concept by the painter Hubert Robert.
Inspired by medieval architecture, the tower offers exceptional views over the entire estate. Rising four storeys high and crowned by a balcony supported by twelve wooden arches, it recalls the coastal watchtowers of Italy. Its upper section served as an observatory and enabled communication with the palace by means of signals, while its base housed the Hamlet's fishing equipment.
A heritage site under threat
A valuable testament to 18th-century architectural refinement, the Marlborough Tower is now weakened by the deterioration of its external staircase, an essential element for both access and stability. Exposed to the elements for over two centuries, the staircase has suffered significant damage, compromising its use and threatening the integrity of the whole.
a meticulous restoration
The restoration project for the Marlborough Tower aims to ensure the longevity and stability of its external staircase in the face of time and the elements, while respecting its historic appearance and architectural authenticity. Work will begin in autumn 2026.
The staircase, whose complex joinery reflects the craftsmanship of 18th-century carpenters, together with the railings and gates, will be entirely dismantled. Each wooden component will be restored using traditional carpentry methods, while incoporating adaptations designed to improve resistance to moisture and water drainage. The wrought-iron railings and masonry elements will also undergo careful restoration.
The choice of materials, the precision of techniques and the quality of the finishes reflect a commitment to excellence in heritage conservation, balancing historical authenticity with contemporary conservation requirements, thereby ensuring the durability of this emblematic feature of the Hamlet.
Patronage
The staircase of the Marlborough Tower is being restored thanks to the patronage of the Société des Amis de Versailles.
