CIEE Is Moving In!

Early on Saturday, July 6th, the students had the pleasure of visiting the Chateau of Versailles—a palace renowned for its splendor and rich French history. They explored the palace and visited some of its most notable rooms, including the Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, the Royal Apartments, the Gardens of Versailles, and much more. 

"I think it was super surreal being there because so much of French history took place in the castle," said Joie Li, one of our students.

After visiting Versaille Haylee Arabia one of our students remembered Louis XIV's declaration “L'etat, c'est moi” meaning “I am the state.” His statement highlights the absolute authority and control Louis XIV exercised as a monarch. Haylee noted that this statement "felt fitting" after the visit. The grandeur and opulence of Versailles reflect Louis XIV's vision of absolute monarchy and his ambition to project power and dominance. 

This trip was a perfect opportunity for the students to see an iconic French monument, especially one they have studied in their history textbooks. "Beautiful yet busy," said Annaleise Heinrichs, one of our students.

Students spent their lunch break in the gardens, where they walked around, took photos, listened to the music being played, and enjoyed the views. Some students even played soccer in the gardens. I'm sure Louis XVI would have enjoyed that—though he might have preferred a game more appropriate for the time.