Heritage Days 2025: program at the Institut national des Jeunes Sourds in Paris

The Journées du Patrimoine, created in 1984 by the French Ministry of Culture, is a not-to-be-missed event for history and culture lovers. Held every year on the third weekend of September, this major event gives the public the chance to discover places throughout France that are usually closed or not easily accessible. In Paris, these days are an opportunity to visit emblematic monuments, museums and administrative buildings, as well as lesser-known sites steeped in history and anecdotes.

• To be read
• This week's tips in Paris and the Ile-de-France region, November 10-16, 2025

During the Journées du Patrimoine 2025, a large number of sites in and around Paris will be opening their doors to the public. Not to be missed are the Palais de l'Élysée, the Panthéon and the Musée du Louvre, all of which will be offering guided tours and exclusive events. In the Île-de-France region, places such as the Château de Versailles and the Basilique de Saint-Denis will also be welcoming visitors for unique discoveries. These days will be punctuated by exhibitions, conferences and workshops for young and old, offering a unique immersion in French heritage.

TheInstitut National des Jeunes Sourds in Paris is one of those places usually closed to the public, and it's worth discovering during these days. Founded in 1760 by Abbé de l'Épée, this was the first establishment in the world designed to teach young deaf people. Located in the historic Saint-Jacques district in the 5th arrondissement, it played a crucial role in the development of French sign language (LSF). During your visit, you can explore the institute's historic buildings, watch LSF demonstrations, and discover the fascinating history of this pioneering institution.

The Journées du patrimoine 2025 program at the Institut national des Jeunes Sourds in Paris:

• Visit to the Institut National de Jeunes Sourds de Paris with LSF workshops
  Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 10:00 ⤏ 17:00
  

  Come and discover the buildings and remarkable garden of our School for Young Deaf People, a former convent dating back to the 16th century! In the heart of Paris, you can explore the key areas of this institution of Deaf culture, with historic photo exhibitions, introductory workshops in French Sign Language, a tour of our incredible heritage library and its exceptional relics... You and your family can also discover the school's huge secret garden, in the heart of the Latin Quarter, with the oldest pear tree in Paris!

  French Sign Language workshops will take place at 11.30 a.m. and 3.30 p.m.: please register at the school reception desk!