The Antiquarian district

Some 50 antiquarians look forward to welcoming you in the very centre of Versailles, just a stone’s throw away from the château.

A stroll through the district is unmissable for all those who love beautiful items, experienced collectors and bargain hunters alike. Whether you prefer jewellery, antique or art deco furniture, whether you collect antique, modern, or contemporary paintings, books, prints, porcelain and china, antique toys or archaeological artefacts, you will certainly find something to satisfy your curiosity and fulfil your every wish, from the most reasonable to the most outlandish.

The Antiquarian district has four areas connected by narrow streets and courtyards

Le Bailliage
This superb 18th century building built in 1724 by Tavenot, a student of Mansart, was the first court and prison in Versailles and now houses antique shops and galleries offering furniture, modern paintings and artworks in an enchanting setting.

Le Village
Wander into Le Village – former outbuildings of the Picardie hotel where small houses arranged in a horseshoe shape around the well welcome visitors. A picturesque staircase will take you to more exhibitors and on towards the rue de la Pourvoierie and the Notre Dame market.

Le Passage
Le Passage is the passageway where prisoners in the Geôle prison took exercise. Samson, who executed Louis XVI, held the office of executioner there until 1788. Madame Du Barry, Louis XV’s official mistress, was imprisoned there during the French Revolution. Today, visitors can admire jewels, ceramics, elegant furniture, and miniatures in the passageway’s many antique shops.

Le Carré
The Carré des Antiquaires was originally the stables of the Bailliage, before being transformed into storage for wines and spirits sold at the Notre Dame market in the 19th century, giving the courtyard its nickname, the Cour de l’Etape aux Vins. Le Carré now houses antiques galleries and crafts workshops, revealing the wealth of creation and art from centuries past.

Discover the Antiquarian district through one of the treasure hunts in the Paris Region Adventures application specially designed for families and downloadable free of charge.