Hôtel national des Invalides: a landmark in France's military history

Published by Rizhlaine de Sortiraparis · Photos by Cécile de Sortiraparis · Published on December 19, 2023 at 02:29 p.m.
Located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, the Hôtel des Invalides is an impressive site that plunges us into France's military history. Three museums are housed here: the Museum of the Army, the Museum of the Order of the Liberation and the Museum of the Plans-Reliefs, as well as the tomb of Napoleon 1st, which lies beneath the Invalides dome.

From the 7th arrondissement of Paris, theHôtel des Invalides stands as a silent witness toFrance's military history. This emblematic monument, charged with meaning and history, is a true national heritage. Founded in the 17th century, under the reign of Louis XI, theHôtel des Invalides was built to provide shelter and care for wounded and aging soldiers. Its construction, entrusted to thearchitect Libéral Bruant, was completed in 1676. The Sun King wished to offer shelter to veterans who had served France valiantly.

The Hôtel des Invalides boasts impressive French classicist architecture. The golden dome that crowns the complex is one of its most emblematic features, and was originally the Chapelle Royale. Built by architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart, this breathtaking dome symbolizes the grandeur of France. It contains the famous tomb of Napoleon I, which is open to visitors.

Today, theHôtel des Invalides ' heritage lies in its memorial and cultural vocation. It houses the Musée de l'Armée, which traces the development of weaponry and military strategy over the centuries, the Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération, which honors the heroes of the French Resistance during the Second World War, and the Musée des Plans-Reliefs. These spaces highlight the commitment and sacrifice of the men and women who defended France.

The Hôtel des Invalides stands as a symbol of France's commitment to its veterans, past and present. So, whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast or simply a curious visitor, theHôtel des Invalides invites you to explore its past and (re)discover the personalities, exploits and sacrifices that have markedFrance's history.

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Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
From December 19, 2023 to December 31, 2027

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.

    Location

    129 Rue de Grenelle
    75007 Paris 7

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