Heritage Days 2026: explore the Republican Guard and the Celestins district in Paris

The history of the Republican Guard is closely tied to the city of Paris. Moreover, its motto is the same as the capital’s: Fluctuat nec mergitur. The Republican Guard is a branch of the National Gendarmerie dedicated to the protection of the President of the Republic and visiting heads of state. The guards are charged with ensuring the security of the government’s most important buildings.

This military corps also encompasses a range of crafts and trades: saddlers, helmet-makers, armourers, costume designers, but also an orchestra, the cavalry, farriers... The Republican Guard thus hides many surprises, unveiled to the public on 19 and 20 September 2026 as part of the new edition of the Heritage Days.

During this landmark cultural event, the headquarters of the General Staff of the Republican Guard in Paris opens its doors to the curious. The Quartier des Célestins welcomes visitors of all ages for a weekend brimming with discoveries.

If French institutions or the military world captivate you, don’t miss these exceptional open-door days! Here is the detailed September lineup and the access conditions for this event. Get ready for a memorable weekend in Paris.

The Heritage Days program featuring the Republican Guard in the Celestins district:

Step into the Celestins district
As part of European Heritage Days, step into the Célestins district and discover a landmark in the history and heritage of the Republican Guard. Come explore this exceptional site, its story, its architecture, and the world of the women and men who uphold the traditions of the National Gendarmerie there. A unique opportunity to experience this living heritage from a new angle, right in the heart of Paris.
Conditions de participation : Admission is free but issued under the name on the reservation. Please bring proof of your reservation on the day of your visit. - Free | Reservation required - https://my.weezevent.com/gr-journee-europeenne-du-patrimoine-2026
Schedule: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 09:00–12:00, 14:00–17:00 | Sunday, September 20, 2026, 09:00–12:00, 14:00–17:00

The heart of Paris is brimming with places to visit during Heritage Days—follow the guide.

Heritage Days 2026 in Paris (75): the schedule of visits and activities by arrondissement
For Paris’ 2026 Journées du Patrimoine, the capital’s monuments and historic sites throw open their doors—often free of charge—to reveal their secrets. Don’t miss this must-attend weekend, scheduled for September 19–20, 2026, as you discover the program built around the themes “Heritage in Peril” and “Heritage of Photography.” [Read more]