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 gilded dome that crowns the complex is one of its most emblematic elements, 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.
The legacy of theHôtel des Invalides today lies in its memorial and cultural vocation. It houses the Musée de l'Armée, which traces the development of weapons 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 servicemen, 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.
Charity runs and solidarity walks to benefit Bleuet de France around the Invalides
To raise funds for wounded soldiers, Parisians are invited to run or walk from 1.5 to 10 kilometers, starting at Les Invalides and looping around the monument, on Sunday, May 10, 2026. [Read more]
What to do with children at the Musée de l'Armée, des Plans-Reliefs et de l'Ordre de la Libération?
Located in the Hôtel des Invalides, the Musée de l'Armée, the Musée des Plans-Reliefs and the Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération offer a complete visit to a historic monument in Paris. For the whole family, the program includes events, guided tours and workshops. [Read more]
The Eglise du Dôme and the Eglise Saint-Louis-des-Invalides
The Eglise du Dôme and the Eglise Saint-Louis-des-Invalides are in fact one and the same building. We explain it all below! [Read more]
At the Army Museum, rare-access tours of spaces normally off-limits to the public for the 2026 Night of Museums.
On the occasion of the Night of Museums, held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, the Army Museum invites visitors to wander freely through a place steeped in history. It's the perfect moment to discover or rediscover the museum's permanent collections. Here is the program for this after-hours event! [Read more]
The Musée de l'armée in Paris, a witness to military history in the heart of the Hôtel des Invalides
The Musée de l'Armée, located in the heart of the Hôtel des Invalides, takes us to the heart of military history through its permanent collections and temporary exhibitions. Find out more about this emblematic museum in Paris's 7th arrondissement. [Read more]
Explorations: A State Affair? The historical exhibition unfolds at the Army Museum
The Army Museum traces three centuries of history and discovery, with the exhibition Explorations: a State affair?, on view from April 15 to August 16, 2026. [Read more]
Easter Holidays 2026: the kids’ program at the Plans-Reliefs Museum
From April 18 to May 3, 2026, Easter holidays are here! For the occasion, the Plans-Reliefs Museum is offering a wide range of activities to explore with children. [Read more]
AURA INVALIDES, the must-see sound and light show in Paris
Looking for a unique nocturnal experience in Paris? Ready to be amazed and embark on a timeless journey to a legendary heritage site? Come and discover AURA INVALIDES, a sound and light show at the iconic Dôme des Invalides as night falls. A magical moment in the heart of the Dome, sure to delight young and old alike. [Read more]
Meetup at the Gardens 2026 at the Relief Map Museum, located in the heart of the Hôtel des Invalides in Paris
Located in the heart of Les Invalides, the Relief Map Museum invites you to join this year's edition of « Rendez-vous aux Jardins 2026 ». Explore the exciting lineup of activities and events awaiting you for a delightful weekend in the countryside from June 5 to 7, 2026. [Read more]
Night of Museums 2026 at the Relief Map Museum in Paris: theatrical tours and mystery quests
Night of Museums 2026 is making its comeback in Paris and the Île-de-France region. To celebrate, the Plans-Reliefs Museum, located within the Hôtel des Invalides in the 7th arrondissement, will stay open late and present a specially curated program for the occasion on May 23, 2026. [Read more]
The Musée des Plans Reliefs, a unique collection in Paris
The Musée des Plans Relief, located in the Hôtel des Invalides in Paris, houses some 100 relief plans of fortified towns. Once used for military purposes, they are now preserved in their original state at the Invalides, where you can discover these immense models of French towns. [Read more]
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Dates and Opening Time
Next days
Monday:
from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Tuesday:
from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Wednesday:
from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Thursday:
from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Friday:
from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Saturday:
from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Sunday:
from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Location
Hôtel national des Invalides
129 Rue de Grenelle
75007 Paris 7
