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Following the opening of the Jardin du Parfumeur, a haven located at the heart of the Trianon Estate dedicated to perfume plants and flowers, Maison Francis Kurkdjian continues its patronage of the Palace of Versailles by supporting the creation of its Biodiversity Observatory.

Deployed across the 800 hectares of the Versailles, Trianon and Marly estates, this scientific project works to catalogue, study and preserve an exceptional environmental heritage through four areas of observation: inventories of fauna and flora, biosurveillance of the estate’s beehives, and the study of water quality in ponds and fountains.

The initial results of the various studies highlight the richness and diversity of the ecosystems across the Versailles and Marly estates, which are home to 350,000 trees, 55 fountains and basins, and 16 groves. A particularly diverse fauna finds refuge here, composed of heritage species, including amphibians, birds, and bats.

In addition to this natural diversity, the gardens host an exceptionally rich horticultural flora, with more than 300 species. Each year, the teams experiment with planting new varieties for their ornamental value, their melliferous qualities (beneficial to pollinating bees), and their ability to adapt to climatic conditions.

In spring 2025, the results of the various studies conducted will be shared through an interactive Storymap, accessible on the Palace of Versailles website. Texts, visuals, recordings, and maps updated in real time will enable users to gain a deeper understanding of the Versailles ecosystem and the challenges related to preserving its living heritage.

© Didier Saulnier

© Thomas Garnier 

© Mehdi Toumi