A still-functioning barracks filled with fire trucks and vehicles from past centuries: at first glance, the museum space of the Paris Fire Brigade (BSPP) in Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, in the Seine-Saint-Denis département, is impressive. And with good reason: the museum brings together more than two hundred years of the history of the Paris fire department, from its creation by Napoleon 1st in 1811. Heroes of the shadows, particularly acclaimed on the Champs-Elysées during the unmissable July 14th parade every year, this is a unique opportunity to plunge into the heart of the history and behind the scenes of the Paris fire department.
From ceremonial outfits to paper archives containing over two hundred years' worth of data (including famous fires such as the Bazar de la Charité, Notre-Dame and historic interventions), not forgetting helmets, spears, axes... Discover over two hundred years of history, firefighting outfits, accessories and - the highlight of the visit - BSPP vehicles.
Indeed, the centerpiece of the visit is the various vehicles, from Delahaye automobiles (1910-1920) to the star 8-ton truck, which turned out to be France's first fire truck crane! Ladders, fire hoses, fire engines... The guided tour provides tons of information and anecdotes to really get to know this institution.
Did you know?
Since the institution was created by Napoleon 1st, the Paris fire department has had to be military (and therefore properly trained). Attached to the French Army, it is the only brigade in France where this condition is required. In Marseilles, they will also be asked to join the French Navy.
Until now, the museum only opened its doors during the Journées du Patrimoine, but now several free guided tour slots are available on Enlarge Your Paris!
This test was conducted as part of a professional invitation. If your experience differs from ours, please let us know.
Location
Paris Fire Brigade Museum
89 Rue du Docteur Bauer
93400 Saint Ouen
Booking
pompiersparis.fr
