Step back in time to one of the most pivotal moments in French history as you visit the site of the Tennis Court Oath, or as the French call it, the Serment du Jeu de paume. Located in the historic city of Versailles, this unassuming indoor tennis court became the birthplace of modern democracy in France. On June 20, 1789, 576 French deputies, primarily from the Third Estate, gathered here to take a solemn oath that would alter the course of history.
In the late 18th century, France was teetering on the brink of financial ruin. King Louis XVI, in a desperate bid to address the kingdom's fiscal crisis, convened the Estates-General at Versailles in May 1789. This assembly brought together representatives from the three traditional estates of French society: the clergy, the nobility, and the commoners (the Third Estate).
However, the proceedings quickly descended into chaos. The Third Estate, representing the vast majority of the French population, found itself consistently outvoted by the privileged clergy and nobility. Frustration mounted as the Third Estate demanded a more equitable system of representation and voting by head rather than by estate.
On June 17, 1789, in a bold move, the Third Estate declared itself the National Assembly, asserting that they alone represented the will of the French people. This declaration was met with resistance from the king and the other estates, leading to a standoff that would culminate in the historic events of June 20.
On the morning of June 20, 1789, the deputies of the Third Estate arrived at their usual meeting place, only to find the doors locked and guarded by royal troops. Undeterred, they reconvened at a nearby indoor tennis court, known as the Jeu de paume, in the Saint-Louis district of Versailles. It was here, in this unassuming venue, that they would make their stand.
Amidst the charged atmosphere, Jean-Joseph Mounier proposed that they take a collective oath, vowing not to disband until they had drafted a new constitution for France. The deputies unanimously agreed, and Jean Sylvain Bailly, the president of the assembly, read aloud the oath: We swear never to separate and to reassemble wherever circumstances require, until the constitution of the kingdom is established and consolidated on solid foundations.
This powerful declaration, known as the Tennis Court Oath, symbolized the deputies' unwavering commitment to the cause of national sovereignty and constitutional government. It marked a decisive break from the old regime and set the stage for the sweeping changes that would follow in the French Revolution.
The impact of the Tennis Court Oath was immediate and profound. It galvanized support for the National Assembly and emboldened the deputies to press forward with their demands for reform. In the weeks that followed, the National Assembly would be joined by members of the clergy and nobility, further strengthening its legitimacy.
By July 9, 1789, the National Assembly had transformed itself into the National Constituent Assembly, tasked with drafting a new constitution for France. This body would go on to enact some of the most significant reforms of the revolution, including the abolition of feudal privileges and the adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen.
The Tennis Court Oath also served as a powerful symbol of unity and resolve. It demonstrated that the deputies were willing to defy royal authority and stand together in pursuit of their goals. This spirit of solidarity would be a defining feature of the revolutionary movement and would inspire countless others to join the cause.
Today, the site of the Tennis Court Oath is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the French Revolution. Located at 1 Rue du Jeu de Paume in Versailles, the former indoor tennis court has been preserved as a historical monument. Visitors can explore the space where the deputies took their historic oath and learn more about the events that unfolded there.
The interior of the court has been restored to reflect its appearance in 1789, with period-appropriate decor and informative displays. Plaques and inscriptions commemorate the deputies and their momentous declaration, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the significance of the Tennis Court Oath.
In addition to the historical exhibits, the site also hosts occasional events and lectures, offering visitors the opportunity to engage with experts and delve deeper into the history of the French Revolution. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about this transformative period, a visit to the site of the Tennis Court Oath is sure to be a memorable and enlightening experience.
In conclusion, the Tennis Court Oath stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the enduring quest for democracy and justice. It is a symbol of the courage and determination of the French deputies who dared to challenge the old order and lay the foundations for a new, more equitable society. As you stand in the very place where history was made, you'll gain a profound appreciation for the significance of this momentous event and its lasting impact on the world.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
