The Royal Gate, which disappeared following the French Revolution, stands again in Versailles Palace courtyard, restoring its original double enclosure. Is now possible to experience the visual sensations the men and women of the 18th century felt as they approached Versailles. An 80 metre long wrought iron gate, just like the one which separated the Main Gate from the Royal Gate under the Ancien Regime is re-installed. 
The adornments are made of plate iron and bronze casting. The structure was reworked to obtain the finish of the former gates. All of the ironwork and ornaments were gilded on site with gold leaf, under covered scaffolding. 15 tons of iron were necessary for this project.
The addition of the ornaments was the final stage that crowned the achievement of a project started in summer 2006. A lighting system to highlight the structural elements (pilasters, sculpted groups, pediment coat of arms) was put the finishing touches on this change of appearance. 
At the end of the process, the palace courtyard restored its appearance of 1789 prior to the French Revolution in a layout that already provides improved conditions to receive the public.
Other projects have been carried out as part of this renovation campaign. The original level of the courtyard was restored (+ 40cm), and the cobbling was renewed. 
The equestrian statue of Louis XIV erected by Louis-Philippe on the location where the gate was restored was moved and will be restored and returned to a location that has yet to be determined. The sculpted groups of Peace and Abundance were restored and moved from the sentry boxes of the Main Gate to be placed on the pedestals of the new Royal Gate.Overall project budget: €9 million
