monument
Les Invalides
17th-century monumental complex with a gilded dome, housing Napoleon's tomb and the Army Museum.
History & context
Louis XIV began the Hôtel des Invalides in 1670 to house wounded soldiers of his armies. Designed by Libéral Bruant and then Jules Hardouin-Mansart, it could shelter nearly 4,000 veterans.
The gilded dome, completed in 1706, has held the tomb of Napoleon I since 1861: a red quartzite sarcophagus on a green granite base. The site now houses the Army Museum and remains a place of military memory.
Key facts
- Built
- 1670–1706
- Architect
- Libéral Bruant, Jules Hardouin-Mansart
- Style
- French Classical
- District
- 7th
Why visit
- ·Napoleon's tomb beneath a spectacular dome
- ·One of Europe's richest military museums
- ·A monumental esplanade, open and free
What to see
- ·Napoleon's tomb
- ·Gilded dome
- ·Army Museum
- ·Courtyards
Practical tips
- ·Combine with nearby Rodin Museum
Best photo spots
- ·The dome seen from Pont Alexandre III
- ·The line of cannons in the main courtyard
Good to know
- ·The Army Museum ticket includes access to the dome
- ·The courtyards can be crossed freely
- ·A full museum visit easily takes two hours
Schedules and tickets may change. Check the official website before booking.
Anu's insider tip
Enter from the northern esplanade: the view of the dome is far better than from the back.
With family
Medieval armour and the models of fortified towns usually captivate children.
Nearby
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Eiffel Tower
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Saint-Germain-des-Prés
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