The Hôtel des Menus-Plaisirs was built between 1741 and 1748, initially to house the royal entertainments department. It served as a repository for the stage props and decor used in the plays and operas performed at the court of Versailles. On the 5^th May 1789 the premises saw the inauguration of the États-Généraux (French National Assembly). During the French Revolution two votes took place in the Hôtel des Menus-Plaisirs which changed the course of history, marking the advent of French citizenship, the abolition of privilege (4^th August 1789) and the Declaration of Human and Civic Rights (26^th August 1789).

Since 1996, the Hôtel des Menus-Plaisirs has returned to its original role with the CMBV (Centre de musique baroque de Versailles) whose mission is to promote French baroque music worldwide.

Programme

• Guided tour of the Hôtel des Menus-Plaisirs
  Members of the CMBV will show you round these historic premises and shed light on its political, social and artistic role from the 18^th century until today!                                                          
  Duration of visit: 40–50 minutes
  Visiting times decided on the day, according to number of visitors    

• Discover the CMBV’s musical instruments, stage decor & theatrical costumes
  Stroll through the Hôtel des Menus-Plaisirs (now CMBV rehearsal rooms) and enjoy a close-up view of the period instruments, stage decor and opera costumes on exhibit.

Les Enfants du patrimoine cultural outreach
On Friday 15^th September, as part of Les Enfants du Patrimoine cultural outreach, the CMBV will offer pupils from four classes a chance to discover the historic and artistic legacy of the Hôtel des Menus-Plaisirs. They may choose two of the following activities - a guided tour, introduction to baroque music and a specially organised treasure hunt.