Hôtel des Invalides

Overview

With its magnificent, towering golden dome catching the sun across Paris, Les Invalides is a vast complex dedicated to the military history of France. It serves as both a museum and the final resting place of the country's greatest military figures.

Highlights

• Napoleon's Tomb: The Emperor rests directly under the soaring 107-metre gold dome in a massive, circular crypt made of red quartzite.
• Musée de l'Armée: One of the absolute best military museums in the world, featuring an incredible collection of medieval armor and weaponry.
• The Courtyard: The sweeping, grand Cour d'Honneur lined with historic artillery pieces.

History

King Louis XIV commissioned the complex in 1670 as a hospital and retirement home for aged and unwell soldiers ("invalides"). It was one of the first state-run facilities to care for military veterans. Crucially, the storming of the Bastille in 1789 began here when thousands of Parisians raided Les Invalides for muskets.

Visitor Tips

• Scale: The complex is enormous. If you only want to see Napoleon's Tomb, head straight for the Dôme des Invalides entrance.
• Military History: The World War I and II wings are exceptionally well-curated and deeply moving.
• Duration: 1 hour for the Tomb alone, 3–4 hours if visiting the military museums.