French military history tour of l'Hotel des Invalides

Free cancellation

Place: Paris

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Language: English

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Do this because

Visit the complex of l'Hotel des Invalides and discover all there is to know about its history
See the main courtyard and enter the artillery collection
Explore the Cathedral of Saint-Louis and Dôme des Invalides

What to expect

Join a guided visit of l'Hotel des Invalides and the surrounding complex and listen to its history and to a number of fascinating stories, not only about the French but also about the many nations that have come to fight on French soil.

As you might guess from its name, the Invalides was constructed in the 17th century to provide a retirement home and care center for the thousands of soldiers wounded while fighting for their country under the Old Regime. Commissioned by the Sun King Louis XIV, the Invalides was the world’s first veteran’s home on such a large scale. In addition to the museum, tombs, and military ceremonies that keep the site relevant today, its original vocation is still respected and a number of disabled soldiers are currently lodged in this 300-year-old barracks.

Your expert guide will take you on a historical journey: you’ll dive deep into military history, as you admire the decorated armor and cannon from medieval and Renaissance periods. You'll hear of the exploits of General Bonaparte and you'll learn how he became Emperor Napoleon.

When the tour of the museum is over, you’ll end your experience with a visit to the church, where you'll discover the tomb of the most famous military leader in European history.