Hôtel national des Invalides
Visit the Army Museum in Paris and Napoleon's Tomb
Les Invalides
Les Inválidos de París (Hôtel National des Invalides) is a palace ordered to be built in 1670 by King Louis XIV to house soldiers wounded in war and disabled veterans, as a token of gratitude for devoting their lives to the service of the monarchy.
Within the complex of buildings you will find the Museo del Ejército de París, where you can visit Napoleon's tomb.
In the late 17th century este edificio albergaba a 4.000 hombres, who contributed to maintaining the army from retirement by making uniforms and footwear.
The complex also includes a hospital where the most seriously wounded were sent, and it remains in operation to this day, Hôpital des Invalides.
The Churches of Les Invalides in Paris
Two churches complete this impressive architectural ensemble: la iglesia del Domo, named after its great golden dome (gilded five times over) rising 100 meters high; and the Catedral de San Luis des Invalides, also known as the Soldiers' Church.
Both are connected and share architectural continuity, allowing soldiers and royalty to attend Mass at the same time without mingling.
Napoleon's Tomb
In 1840, the tumba de Napoleón, whose remains were transferred from the island of Saint Helena, where he had died in exile, was installed here beneath the dome of Les Invalides; his ashes were placed in 1861 under the dome in a sarcophagus surrounded by a circular gallery decorated with reliefs and statues depicting the emperor's great deeds.
Museums at Les Invalides in Paris
Les Invalides is also home to several important museums, including the Army Museum and Museo del Ejército de París, the Museum of the Order of the Liberation (Second World War) and the Museum of Relief Maps and Plans (military models and scale models).
Useful Information about Les Invalides in Paris
Here you have all the information you need, with up-to-date schedules and prices, to enjoy your visit without any hassle.
Prices
- Musée de l'Armée and Les Invalides ticket €15 Buy here
- Free for visitors under 18 and for European citizens aged 18 to 25
- Free for holders of the Paris Pass tourist card.
Opening Hours
- April to September: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
- October to March: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Address
- 129 Rue de Grenelle
Getting There
- Metro lines 8 and 13, Invalides station
- RER line C, Invalides station
- Buses: 28, 49, 63, 69, 82, 83, 87 and 92
More Attractions in Paris
Nearby places to Les Invalides you can visit
Up to the Eiffel Tower
France's most famous monument. We give you all the info you need to visit it and enjoy the views of Paris from the top.
Champ de Mars Gardens
Champ de Mars, the famous park located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. 15 minutes from Les Invalides.
Musée Rodin
Opened to the public in 1919 at the initiative of the sculptor himself, set in an 18th-century mansion with a three-hectare garden.
Saxe-Breteuil Market
A Paris street market offering fresh produce (cheeses, meats, fish, fruits and vegetables), along with some clothing and household items.
