Created in the 17th century, the Chestnut Grove is one of the Gardens of Versailles’ hidden gems. With its history, the transformations it has seen, and the current restoration projects, it is a place where heritage, expertise and nature live side by side.
Restoration work underway in the Chestnut Grove
© EPV/ Thomas Garnier
A SANCTUARY AT THE HEART OF THE GARDENS OF VERSAILLES
Designed in 1678 by André Le Nôtre, the grove was then called the Water Gallery, and from 1680 onwards took the name of Antiquities Gallery, due to the copies of Roman antiquities that were installed there. In 1704, architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart completely redesigned the space, creating a new layout with chestnut trees planted in the centre, which gave it the name it still bears today. The space is now punctuated by trellises, niches featuring statues, and two large basins at either end.
tHE PRESENT STATE OF THE GROVE
Today, however, the Chestnut Grove is showing worrying signs of disrepair. The trellises have gradually deteriorated, the statues and marble benches have been damaged in many places, the ground has been weakened by erosion, and the chestnut trees are infested with parasites. The hydraulic systems and pools are also in poor condition, which has an impact on the overall appearance and harmony of the site. A major restoration project began in December 2025 involving landscape gardeners, architects, craftsmen and women, and gardeners. Together, they are bringing this space back to life: a space designed to be an open-air stage, true to the spirit of the Gardens of Versailles.
RESTORING ITS FORMER GLORY
Restoration work began in December 2025 with archaeological excavations and will continue in 2026, with the aim of taking the grove back to how it was after it was redesigned by Hardouin-Mansart in the early 18th century. The project covers the green areas, trellis structures, statues, furniture, and hydraulics.
pATRONAGE
This restoration project has been made possible by the support of Fondation Philanthropia, Maison Hennessy, and the generosity of Mrs Marie-Catherine Anouilh.
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To be a patron of Versailles is to become part of this chain that links together the history of yesterday, today and tomorrow - Passing down to the future generations the living memory of the history that has shaped us - Maintaining the knowledge of rare craftsmanship - Protecting this natural environment where flora, fauna and water interact with the arts - Creating a particular bond combining the shine of remarkable projects and the ambition of contributing to the well-being of the community.
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