Versailles: Science and Splendour - A Memorable Exhibition

I don't often head to the Science Museum, but I felt a strong urge to review the Versailles: Science and Splendour exhibition that concluded recently. This exhibition illuminated the Palace of Versailles as a hub of scientific advancement, displaying fascinating artifacts such as Louis XV’s Indian rhinoceros, a precise lunar map by the mathematician and astronomer Jean-Dominique Cassini, and an exquisite watch crafted for Marie Antoinette, the last French Queen. The exhibition explored numerous scientific fields, including medicine, botany, and astronomy. Despite having studied the Enlightenment era during my undergraduate history degree, visiting the exhibition enriched my understanding of French scientific achievements in that timeframe. My solitary critique pertains not to the exhibition but to the Science Museum itself. They implemented a rule prohibiting backpacks, meaning I had to pay a few pounds to store my bag in a locker near the entrance. Keep in mind that members of the Museum Association can access the temporary exhibitions at the Science Museum at no cost, while Art Fund Pass holders receive a 50% discount.

Post by _TI***mp | Oct 13, 2025