Journées du Patrimoine 2026 : Doors Open at the Conciergerie, the former prison of the French Revolution

Published by Caroline de Sortiraparis, Laurent de Sortiraparis, Cécile de Sortiraparis, Graziella de Sortiraparis · Photos by Cécile de Sortiraparis · Updated on August 19, 2026 at 04:15 p.m.
On the occasion of Heritage Days, the Conciergerie will open its doors to you for free during the weekend of September 19–20, 2026. What’s on offer? Self-guided tours of this former Parisian prison steeped in history.

Want to visit a monument historique in Paris? Make the most of the Journées du Patrimoine 2026 to dive into the fascinating history of the Conciergerie!

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In 2026, for the new and 43rd edition of Heritage Days, the Conciergerie opens its doors once again and invites you to enjoy free, self-guided tours on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, to discover this fortress-like building that has helped shape the history of Paris. A remarkable testament to the civil architecture from the 14th century not to be missed, whether with family or friends.

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This part of the medieval Palais de la Cité (the former residence of the kings of France) was transformed into a prison during the French Revolution. Today, the Salle des Gardes and the huge Salle des Gens d'Armes, built under Philip the Fair, remain, as do the kitchens built under John the Good, still in their original state. On the dungeon side, visitors can discover the cell where Queen Marie-Antoinette was imprisoned just before being guillotined.

Also take the opportunity to visit the Conciergerie and discover the Sainte-Chapelle, a jewel of Gothic architecture just a few steps away. Be aware that this monument still draws a large crowd, so plan for a fairly long wait before you can begin the visit.

Heritage Days 2026 at the Conciergerie — the program:

  • Self-guided tour of the Conciergerie

    Visitors will be able to tour the monument at their own pace. A wait time is likely to be required to access the revolutionary sections.

    Participation conditions: Free | No reservation required

    Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunday, September 20, 2026, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.

    Location

    2 Boulevard du Palais
    75001 Paris 1

    Route planner
    Access
    Metro line 1 "Chatelet" station, line 4 "Cité" station

    Prices
    Free

    Official website
    www.paris-conciergerie.fr

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