Hôtel des Invalides – The Resting Place of Napoleon

Hôtel des Invalides (Hotel of the Invalids) 📍 Location It is located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, on the left bank of the Seine, close to the Pont Alexandre III and the Eiffel Tower. 🏰 Historical Background Built in 1670 by order of Louis XIV, it was originally a hospital and nursing home providing accommodation and care for elderly retired soldiers. The building was designed by renowned architects Libéral Bruant and Jules Hardouin-Mansart, with the latter overseeing the construction of the Dome Church. ⭐ Internal Exhibitions 🎖 Musée de l’Armée (Army Museum) One of the world's most extensive military museums, with a collection of over 500,000 artifacts, including: armor, weapons, military uniforms, flags, exhibits related to Napoleon's campaigns and the French Revolution (there is also a precious collection from the Qianlong period!), and a section on the two World Wars (1871–1945). ⛪ Dôme des Invalides (Golden Dome Church) One of Paris' most famous golden domes, exquisite and magnificent, it is a landmark of the building. The Tomb of Napoleon I (Tombeau de Napoléon Ier) is placed directly beneath the dome, grand and solemn. 🗺 Plans-Reliefs Museum It displays models of French military fortresses from the 17th to the 19th centuries. These are valuable materials for historical and military strategic research (closed on the first Monday of each month, except in July/August/September). 🇫🇷 Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération (Museum of the Order of Liberation) It commemorates the history of France's resistance to German occupation during World War II. It exhibits materials on the Free France movement, the life of General de Gaulle, etc. 🏛 Cathédrale Saint-Louis des Invalides (Saint-Louis of the Invalids Cathedral) It still hosts religious ceremonies for military events today. The interior is solemn and dignified, and it houses many military flags. 🕘 Opening Hours (may be adjusted seasonally) Open daily (closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th) Usual opening hours: 10:00 – 18:00 (last entry at 17:30) 🎫 Ticket Information (for regular tickets) Adults: 17 euros EU citizens aged 18–25, teachers, military personnel, etc.: Free A combined ticket is available to visit the Musée Rodin (Billet Jumelé Rodin) 📸 Visiting Tips The golden dome is a classic photo spot. It is recommended to book a time slot online in advance. It can be visited in conjunction with nearby attractions (such as the Eiffel Tower, Musée Rodin, and Pont Alexandre III). #FranceTravel #ParisTravel #ClassicalArchitecture #FrenchClassicism #NapoleonTomb #FranceTravelGuide