Discovering Versailles: A Personal Journey

As the founder and CEO of French Quarter Magazine, Isabelle Karamooz's journey has been intertwined with the essence of Versailles, a place that holds profound significance in her heart. From her roots in this historic French city to her vibrant life in Las Vegas, Nevada, Isabelle's story is a testament to the enduring connection between cultures and continents.

Born and raised in Versailles, Isabelle's childhood was imbued with the magic of the Château de Versailles. Her parents would often take her and her sister to the palace's park, where they would wander among the flower beds, groves, fountains, and numerous statues, soaking in the rich history and grandeur of their surroundings. These visits, sometimes twice a month, sparked Isabelle's lifelong passion for history and art.

Isabelle's love for Versailles and its storied past only deepened as she explored its hidden gems and treasures. In a special edition of French Quarter Magazine, she dedicated an entire issue to Versailles, uncovering its secrets and showcasing its splendor. The edition featured interviews with Catherine Pégard, the president of the Versailles Palace, insider tips on must-visit attractions, and an insightful article about the five-star hotel, Les Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle, along with its celebrity chef Alain Ducasse, who graced the cover of the magazine. Isabelle's dedication to her birthplace shines through on every page.

As a student of history and art history, Isabelle has always been drawn to the beauty and elegance of Versailles. Her meticulous research and documentation have allowed her to delve deeper into its rich tapestry of art, architecture, and culture, sharing her findings with readers eager to discover the wonders of this iconic landmark.

The Château de Versailles, once the political heart of France, is an excellent example of the Baroque style of architecture that developed in the 17th century. The Royal Palace, with its marble-paved courtyard and the grandeur of the gardens, showcases the magnificence of Louis XIV's vision. Designed by the renowned landscape architect André Le Nôtre, the expansive royal gardens cover more than 1,970 acres. They are a testament to the beauty and elegance of French formal garden design. The perfectly edged pathways, manicured hedges, reflecting pools, and artfully carved statues create a harmonious blend of nature and art.

Creating the gardens of Versailles was a monumental task. Large amounts of soil had to be moved to level the ground and make room for various fountains, pools, and statues to create the parterres. Thousands of workers, sometimes even entire regiments, were employed to bring this immense project to life. The gardens, with their symmetrical layout and water features, are considered the essence of French formal garden design, embodying order over nature.

One of the garden's highlights is the Orangerie, initially completed in 1663 and later expanded by Jules Hardouin-Mansart in 1678. It houses potted palm trees, orange trees from Portugal, Spain, and Italy, lemon trees, oleander, and pomegranate trees, some more than 200 years old. The Orangerie, with its rich history and stunning collection of trees, adds to the charm and beauty of Versailles.

Moreover, the Latona Fountain, an emblematic feature of the gardens, was commissioned by Louis XIV to depict the childhood narrative of Apollo, the sun god whom he revered. Undergoing several transformations before attaining its present form, the fountain, also known as Latona's Fountain and Parterre, symbolizes the king's admiration for Apollo and his desire to immortalize this mythological saga within the realms of Versailles.

Inside the Château, the grandeur continues with the opulent rooms and halls that have witnessed centuries of history. The Hall of Mirrors, with its magnificent chandeliers and ornate decorations, is a sight to behold. Each room tells a story, from the royal apartments to the stunning Chapel, where art and architecture combine to create a timeless masterpiece.

Under Isabelle's visionary leadership, French Quarter Magazine has become a beacon of cultural exchange, bridging the gap between French and American communities. Through her work, she seeks to celebrate diversity, foster connections, and inspire others to embrace the beauty of cultural heritage.

As Isabelle's journey unfolds, one thing remains clear – her deep-rooted connection to Versailles serves as a guiding light, illuminating her path and inspiring others to explore the timeless allure of this historic city.

Website: www.frenchquartermagazine.com