Olympic 2024: When sports competitions are connected with great cultural heritage

"...It is undeniable that this Olympic Games is a global sensation. People are captivated by almost every event, and one of the most spectacular competitions that cannot be overlooked is equestrian. Paris 2024 have chosen the magnificent and iconic location of the Château de Versailles, a symbol of the grandeur of the French monarchy. When it comes to equestrian sports, many people see a connection with the royal history and the prosperity of the past..."

Paris 2024 has released images of the equestrian competition venue, which will be held at the Château de Versailles, one of France's most significant tourist attractions. The Château de Versailles is the world's most luxurious, beautiful, and grand royal palace. It was once the residence of King Louis XIV of France and served as the centre of power and the arts in France during the 17th and 18th centuries, making it was chosen by a UNESCO World Heritage site. Looking back into history, there is a clear connection between equestrian activities and the Palace of Versailles. Therefore, for the 33rd Olympic Games, the organisers are determined to showcase this splendid historical legacy to the world once again.

The story of equestrianism and the Château de Versailles began in the 17th century when the great King Henry IV, the first monarch from the House of Bourbon, and his successors, King Louis XIII and King Louis XIV, the longest-reigning monarch in Europe at the time, sought to utilise the lush green space to the west of the capital for hunting. Thus, the green areas of the Château de Versailles were initially used for hunting activities. Horses became an essential part of this hunting tradition, and since then, they have played a significant role at the Château de Versailles.

Horses were not only a means of transportation in ancient times but also a symbol of power and grandeur for rulers. In the ancient governance system, where kings held supreme authority, horses became a prominent symbol of their power. Artworks and statues often depict kings mounted on horseback, illustrating that horses were more than mere artistic elements; they were a means of political communication, representing the king's authority and skill in governance.

In 2003, the Académie Équestre de Versailles was established to revive the art of horseback riding at the Château de Versailles. This tradition had been lost since the French Revolution and the World Wars. The equestrian competition at Versailles in the 2024 Olympics represents a prestigious return to the origins of this sport, marking a significant moment in the long history of equestrian culture at the Château de Versailles.

Also See: Olympic 2024: 5 Stunning Art Exhibitions You Can't-Miss During the Olympics