Heritage Days 2025: discover the history and treasures of the 15-20 Hospital in Paris

TheHôpital National des Quinze-Vingt in Paris specializes inophthalmology. It was founded in 1260 by King Louis IX, also known as Saint Louis. The hospice's mission was to take in poor, blind men and women in Paris. The name "Quinze-Vingt" is thought to be a reference to the number 300 (15x20), the number of beds needed to care for blind knights during the seventh crusade in the 13th century. For the hospital historian, however, this story remains a legend.

To discover the true history and secrets of this medical institution, take advantage of the tours and events scheduled for September 20 and 21, 2025, for the Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days). To mark the occasion, the hospital is opening its doors to the curious, and offering a variety of events throughout the weekend. Find out more about the program for this cultural event.

Good news: these tours are free for all, and accessible without reservation! If you're passing through the 12th arrondissement during the Journées du Patrimoine, don't hesitate to take a look at this historic site.

• To be read
• This week's top picks for July 6–12, 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France

On the program for these Heritage Days at the 15-20 hospital:

• Exhibition:
  In celebration of the European Heritage Days 2025, several key pieces from the collection will be displayed at the 15-20 Hospital for the first time. Visitors will have the opportunity to see:
  
  
  • Royal Charter from Louis IX, known as Saint Louis (13th century): This ancient parchment from March 1270 confirms the privileges granted to the Quinze-Vingts congregation by the King, sealed with an intact wax seal.
    
    
  • Original notes and last will of Nicolas Flamel (14th century): The recently restored will, preserved by the National Archives, along with accounting books never before exhibited, were originally part of the hospital’s archives. The testament mentions a bequest to the hospital for caring for the poor.
    
    
  • Correspondence from three French kings: Francis I (16th century), Henry IV (16th century), and Louis XIV (17th century), as well as letters from Cardinal de Rohan, Grand Almoner of France (18th century), and papal and bishop’s bulls with their seals intact.
    
    
• Guided Tours and Activities:
  In addition to this unique exhibition, visitors can enjoy various engaging activities:
  
  
  • Guided tours exploring the history of the archives, their preservation, contents, and significance.
    
    
  • Bookshop stand featuring books from L’Arbre à Lettres.
    
    
  • Free calligraphy workshop led by artist Vincent Audouin, bridging ancient writing techniques and the historical archives on display.
    Registration online: https://www.15-20.fr/blog/actualite/jep-2025/

Le programme est mis à jour en fonction des annonces officielles.

Are you passionate about the medical world? Discover our themed guide for these European Heritage Days.

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