Britannica Sources used in this answer

Who designed the gardens of the Palace of Versailles?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

The gardens of the Palace of Versailles were designed by the renowned French landscape architect André Le Nôtre.12

Commissioned by King Louis XIV, Le Nôtre transformed what was originally a muddy swamp into a vast, meticulously planned park covering more than 15,000 acres. His design utilized his expertise in perspective and optics to create expansive vistas that complemented the architecture of the palace. Throughout the grounds, he integrated complex waterworks, fountains—such as the Latona and Neptune fountains—and carefully arranged groves and walkways to reflect the splendor of the royal court.12