Versailles, the magnificent royal palace near Paris, home to a grandiose monarchy that was swept away in the Revolution. But there was another side to Versailles - this was also a Palace of Science.
In this special film, Dr. Maddy Pelling visits the Science Museum in London to explore a remarkable exhibition showcasing the fascinating scientific advances fostered by the French monarchy. We get a close up look at some unique objects, including the detailed map of the moon created by Cassini and the meticulously made obstetric models that Mme. Du Coudray designed to train midwives across France. With expert insights from curator Matthew Howles, we explore the studies of natural history in the menagerie, including a stuffed royal rhino, and one of the world’s very first hot air balloon flights that took off from the courtyard of Versailles in front of cheering crowds.
Maddy Pelling tracks the story of France’s drive for significant scientific and technological advances under Louis XIV, XV and XVI. Many were closely associated with furthering the power of France, from mapping the world to strengthening the population and creating lavish state-of-the-art diplomatic gifts, such as the gigantic Clock of the Creation of the World. Others were spectacular engineering triumphs for the personal benefit of the monarchy, including a beautifully intricate watch made with a limitless budget by Abraham-Louis Breguet for Marie Antoinette herself.
Join Maddy on a journey into opulence and science that will make you think again about Versailles.
To find out more visit the Science Museum's website at https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/see-and-do/versailles-science-and-splendour
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