The Palais National des Invalides is an imposing building located in the VII district of Paris. Originally, it was used as a residence for royalty and those servants of the country in the military who had retired for major reasons. The Emperor Napoléon Bonaparte is also buried here.
In 1670, King Louis XIV of France decided to build a building that would serve as a shelter for soldiers who had fought in the war and had been left homeless, a kind of hostel for veterans. The project was ambitious: a huge complex, with leisure spaces, kitchen, rooms and a church to pray.
During the French Revolution it was one of the state buildings taken by the revolutionaries as a sign of rebellion against the monarchy. From there some of the acts and events that took place during those decisive days for the history of France and Europe were organized.
But without a doubt the great fame of this building arose when in 1840 the remains of Napoleon Bonaparte were deposited in it. Since then, many important figures in the history and politics of the country have been buried there, such as Napoleon II and José I of Spain.
Location of Les Invalides
Los Invalides is located in the square with the same name, near the Military School.
What to see in Les Invalides?
The large complex of Les Invalides is made up of an immense cathedral, a museum where jewels belonging to the French army are kept, plans of the city and the Museum of the Order of the Liberation, corners that you should not miss when you come to this parisian corner
Army Museum
In the Army Museum you can visit Napoleon’s mausoleum where the body of his son is also found, in a circular crypt that is adorned with the deeds of the emperor. The Museum of the Order of Liberation and the Museum of Plans and Reliefs are not usually the most visited, although if you are interested in this type of building, visiting them is still a good option for you.
Invalides Cathedral
The Cathedral of the Invalides dates from the same period as the rest of the building and for a time functioned as a place of prayer and mass for both the royals and the soldiers who lived in the complex, until Louis XIV requested that another be built temple where veterans could go, so they wouldn’t have to mix with them.
Church Of The Invalids
The Church of the Invalids was thus born from the whim and foolishness of a king who despised the men who had helped him sustain his reign. Both churches are separate but have a similar architectural style.
Les Invalides: Napoleon’s Tomb and Army Museum
The Palais des Invalides houses one of the world’s largest art and military history collections and offers a unique perspective on French history. Explore its permanent collections, the Dome Church and Napoleon’s tomb. *Target price