On the occasion of Heritage Days 2026, we hit the streets of the capital to uncover historic monuments, free exhibitions, and to venture into places normally off-limits to the public as well as little-known spots.
Calling all keen readers and fans of stunning architecture: here’s a plan you won’t want to miss during this cultural rendezvous, a chance to discover our heritage from a fresh angle. On the weekend of September 19–20, 2026, the Richelieu site of the Bibliothèque Nationale de France will unveil its program and treasures as it marks the 43rd edition of the Journées du Patrimoine.
The Richelieu site reopened to the public after twelve years of renovation work in 2022, during the Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days). This historic site is sure to delight young and old alike, thanks to the sublime rooms of its library and museum. In all, 300 years of history and knowledge are on display. The Salle Ovale, the Galerie Mazarin, the Jardin Vivienne and all the other treasures of the Bibliothèque Nationale de France are just waiting to be revived!
Heritage Days 2026 at Paris's libraries and archives
During the 2026 Heritage Days in Paris, libraries and archives will reveal their secrets to you this weekend of September 19–20, 2026. We’re off to discover these architectural jewels and their treasures! [Read more]
Heritage Days unfold over the weekend of September 19–20, 2026, in Paris and the Île-de-France region. Attention architecture fans: this is your chance to uncover the secrets of the Paris region’s most surprising monuments through architectural tours. [Read more]
Visit to the National Library of France (BnF) – Richelieu Site
Discover the BnF’s historic cradle and journey through centuries of architecture and French cultural history with a stroll through the former palace of Cardinal Mazarin. Wander the listed spaces of the Richelieu site—from Jardin Vivienne to Galerie Mazarin, past the majestic Salle Ovale and the emblematic Salle Labrouste of the Institut National de l’Histoire de l’Art (with its central shop)—as well as all of the museum rooms (where you’ll encounter BnF treasures dating back to the Middle Ages, from ancient jewelry to contemporary stage costumes, not to mention the manuscripts of great French authors or Dagobert’s throne) and the two reading rooms normally reserved for researchers.
During your visit, meet the BnF’s craft trades (presentation of the conservation, restoration and digitization workshops).
Terms of participation: Free | No reservation required
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM | Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Location
BnF - Richelieu site
5 Rue Vivienne
75002 Paris 2
Route planner
Accessibility info
Prices
Free
Official website
www.bnf.fr
Heritage Days 2026 at Paris's libraries and archives
Heritage Days 2026: Architectural treasures to discover in Paris and the Île-de-France region
