Watch The Real Versailles Online Free on GOKU

As the extravagant new drama set in the lush environs of Versailles begins on BBC Two, Lucy Worsley and Helen Castor explain the real-life story behind one of the world's most magnificent structures. They provide a colorful glimpse into the world of sex, drama, and intrigue that Louis XIV and his courtiers lived in. Lucy looks into Louis's complicated world of royal etiquette, clothes, and feasting, while Helen delves into the archives and unpicks the Machiavellian world of court politics that Louis built. We meet the people who inspired the on-screen characters and learn what drove Louis to glorify his reign on a scale that had never been seen before. We also learn about the rivalry between Louis and his brother Philippe, a war hero and outspoken homosexual, and we meet the group of women who vied for Louis's affection. In the end, we learn that Louis was merciless in his desire of glory and that he was successful in conquering his opponents. During his record-breaking 72-year reign, France rose to international prominence as a center of culture and refinement.