The Conservatoire national des arts et métiers is a research and higher education center located in the 3rd arrondissement of Paris. It trains French and international engineers. Created at the time of the French Revolution, Cnam is heir to the Enlightenment and the great scientists and thinkers of the 18th century.
This school has a fascinating history. But what interests us most, on September 20 and 21, 2025, is the Bibliothèque centrale of the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers. As part of the 42nd Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days), we'll be opening its doors to the public.
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?
Come and discover the history of one of the most beautiful libraries in Paris!
On the occasion of the European Heritage Days, come and discover the history of the former priory of Saint-Martin des Champs and its refectory, built around 1230, which has housed the central library of the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers since 1852.
Take advantage of your visit to discover the exhibition "Sur les traces des inventrices du XIXe siècle" (In the footsteps of 19th-century women inventors), featuring archives, magazines and books illustrating the careers of a number of women inventors. This brief panorama highlights their little-known presence and their relationships with the authorities of their time. The variety of themes reflects their investment in work, industry and commerce, the foundations of 19th-century economic life. It's a very different image from the one we know today, of working-class or bourgeois women, legally hindered and infantilized!
### Come and discover the history of one of the most beautiful libraries in Paris!
On the occasion of the European Heritage Days, come and discover the history of the former priory of Saint-Martin des Champs. You'll visit the former church and refectory, built around 1230 and home to the Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers' central library since 1852.
While you're there, take a look at the exhibition "Sur les traces des inventrices du XIXe siècle" (In the footsteps of 19th-century women inventors), featuring archives, magazines and books illustrating the careers of a number of women inventors. This brief panorama highlights their little-known presence and their relationships with the authorities of their time. The variety of themes reflects their investment in work, industry and commerce, the foundations of 19th-century economic life. It's a very different image from the one we know today, of working-class or bourgeois women, legally hindered and infantilized!
Guided tours by appointment, every 45 minutes, from 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to 4:15pm. Meet in the main courtyard, 292 rue Saint-Martin. Groups of 20.
And to discover even more of the capital's hidden treasures, take a look at our special selection!
Heritage Days in Paris 2025: secret, little-known or hidden places to discover this weekend
The Journées du Patrimoine are back again this year for an exceptional edition, taking place on Saturday September 20 and Sunday September 21, 2025. This not-to-be-missed cultural event offers you the chance to visit over 1,500 sites in Paris and the Île-de-France region. While the major museums and emblematic monuments are on the program, it's also an ideal opportunity to explore secret sites that are little-known or inaccessible the rest of the year. [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
From September 20, 2025 to September 21, 2025
Location
Conservatoire national des arts et métiers
292 Rue Saint-Martin
75003 Paris 3
Prices
Free
Official website
journeesdupatrimoine.culture.gouv.fr
Heritage Days in Paris 2025: secret, little-known or hidden places to discover this weekend
