Unlock the secrets of the National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts’ Central Library for Heritage Days 2026

The Conservatoire national des arts et métiers is a research and higher education center, housed in the 3rd arrondissement of Paris. This prestigious institution trains engineers from France and around the world. The CNAM was founded during the French Revolution, and positions itself as the heir to the Enlightenment and to the great scientists and thinkers of the 18th century. 

This school has a fascinating history. But what interests us most are September 19 and 20, 2026, the Central Library of the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers. This study space will, exceptionally, open its doors to us for the 43rd Heritage Days.

The central library occupies the former refectory of the Saint-Martin-des-Champs priory. Renovated a few years ago, this grandiose space with itsGothic architecture is a real gem of history and architecture, hidden and little-known by Parisians. Why not take advantage of the free open-house days during the JEP to discover it, but please note that registration is compulsory?

• To be read
• This week's top picks in Paris and Île-de-France, September 7–13, 2026

What’s on this weekend for Heritage Days 2026:

• Guided tour of the monks' refectory

  Come discover the story behind one of Paris’s loveliest libraries!

  For the European Heritage Days, explore the history of the former priory of Saint-Martin des Champs and its refectory, built around 1230, where the central library of the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers has been housed since 1852.

  Guided tours require advance registration, run every half-hour from 9:30 to 11:30. Meet in the inner courtyard, at 292 rue Saint-Martin. Groups of up to 20 people.

  Participation requirements: Limited to 20 people - Free | Booking required - https://www.eventbrite.fr/e/billets-jep-2026-visite-guidee-du-refectoire-du-prieure-saint-martin-des-champs-1990793504964?aff=oddtdtcreator

  Schedule: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 09:30–10:00, 10:00–10:30, 10:30–11:00, 11:00–11:30, 11:30–12:00

• Guided tour of the former Saint-Martin des Champs Priory (the old church and refectory)

  Discover one of Paris’s most stunning libraries!

  On the occasion of the European Heritage Days, explore the history of the former Saint-Martin des Champs priory. You’ll tour the former church and the refectory built around 1230, where the central library of the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers has been housed since 1852.

  Guided tours require prior registration, every 45 minutes, from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 14:00 to 16:15. Meet in the forecourt, at 292 rue Saint-Martin. Groups of up to 20 people.

  https://www.eventbrite.fr/e/billets-jep-2026-visite-guidee-du-prieure-saint-martin-des-champs-1990792349508?aff=oddtdtcreator

  Participation conditions: Free | Reservation required - https://www.eventbrite.fr/e/billets-jep-2026-visite-guidee-du-prieure-saint-martin-des-champs-1990792349508?aff=oddtdtcreator

  Schedule: Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 10:00–10:45, 10:45–11:30, 11:30–12:15, 12:15–13:00, 14:00–14:45, 14:45–15:30, 15:30–16:15, 16:15–17:00

And to discover even more of the capital's hidden treasures, take a look at our special selection!

Heritage Days 2026: Secret, Little-Known, and Hidden Places to Explore in Paris
The European Heritage Days return this year with an exceptional edition, taking place on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026. This essential cultural event offers the chance to visit more than 1,500 sites in Paris and the Île-de-France region. While the major museums and iconic monuments are on the program, it’s also the perfect opportunity to explore secret, little-known, or even hidden locations. [Read more]