Les Invalides, Paris

Les Invalides is one of Paris’s most famous landmarks, rich in history and stunning architecture. Here’s a quick guide to its key highlights:

History

• Founded by Louis XIV: Les Invalides was built in the 17th century by King Louis XIV.
• Purpose: Originally, it was a hospital and home for war veterans.

Architecture

• Dome Church: The most striking feature is the golden dome, which shines brightly in the Paris skyline.
• Classic French Style: Designed by architect Jules HardouinMansart, it is a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture.

 Napoleon’s Tomb

• Final Resting Place: The site is famous for housing the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte.
• Grand Interior: Inside, you can see his grand sarcophagus made of red quartzite.

 Museums

• Army Museum: Les Invalides hosts the Musee de l’Armee, which displays military artifacts and exhibits from various periods of French history.
• Military History: The museum covers everything from medieval armor to World War II memorabilia.

 Visiting Tips

• Opening Hours: Generally open every day except special holidays.
• Visiting hours: Every day from 10 am. to 6 pm.
• Tickets: Available online or at the entrance.
• Guided Tours: Consider joining a tour to learn more about the rich history.
• Nearest Metro: SaintFrançoisXavier  8 min walk, Ecole Militaire  9 min walk, Invalides  15 min walk.
• Holidays: Closed on January 1st, May 1st and December 25th. 

How much time to spend at Les Invalides?

You should plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours at Les Invalides in Paris. This will give you enough time to explore the Dome Church, Napoleon’s Tomb, and the Army Museum. If you’re particularly interested in military history or architecture, you might want to allocate even more time to fully enjoy everything the site has to offer.

 Nearby Attractions

•  Eiffel Tower: Just a short walk away.
•  Seine River: Perfect for a relaxing boat ride.

  Les Invalides is more than just a historic building; it’s a place where French history comes alive. Whether you’re interested in architecture, and history, or simply looking for a beautiful place to explore, Les Invalides is a must visit when in Paris.