Hôtel des Invalides in Paris region of FrancePhoto by Yiwen

Hôtel des Invalides

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    Highlights
    checkmark grey iconMilitary museum
    checkmark grey iconNapoleon
    checkmark grey iconArchitecture
    checkmark grey iconMuseums
    checkmark grey iconHistoric
    Curated byCatherineUpdated

    I’d put Hôtel des Invalides on the list for a museum stop.

    More about this place

    Hôtel des Invalides is a historic complex of buildings originally built as a hospital and retirement home for war veterans by Louis XIV in the 17th century.

    Today, it houses several museums and monuments all relating to the military history of France, making it a significant site for both its historical and architectural value.

    The most famous part of the complex is the Dôme des Invalides, a royal chapel and the site of Napoleon Bonaparte's tomb. The dome, an example of French Baroque architecture, is gilded with gold leaf and is a prominent feature of the Paris skyline.

    The remains of Napoleon Bonaparte are housed under the dome in a crypt, which is a major draw for visitors. The tomb is made of red quartzite and rests on a green granite base.

    Musée de l'Armée is one of the largest military museums in the world, showcasing a vast collection of arms, armor, and uniforms from various periods in French history, including a substantial collection from the World Wars.

    1 expert tip

    CatherineFrance expert

    Original curator notes · check current details.

    1. Buy a museum ticket if Napoleon’s tomb is essential, and allow extra time for security; the exterior esplanade alone is not the full experience.

    About these tips

    These are the original tips from Catherine’s France curation. Personal recollections describe past visits. Check current access, prices, inclusions and booking rules with the venue or operator for your dates.

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