Les Invalides: Between History and Memory
A new space has opened at the Musée de l'Armée : for the first time, the museum unveils the history of Les Invalides, from its founding by Louis XIV to the present day. Explore 350 years of history behind this exceptional heritage site, which has served many purposes over time.
An exhibition space tracing the history of Les Invalides
The visit begins in the former refectory of the Invalides pensioners, where original murals celebrate the conquests of Louis XIV, who founded Les Invalides in 1670. An innovative exhibition design features a central pathway that, for example, lets visitors view the back of the paintings. A timeline laid out on the floor guides visitors through the site’s history — from the founding of the Hôtel des Invalides to the creation of the Musée de l’Armée in 1905. The visit highlights three key periods in the site's evolution: royal, imperial, and republican.
An immersive experience: The Invalides Experience
After exploring the “History of the Hôtel des Invalides” gallery, visitors step into an immersive visual experience featuring two films. The first recounts ten key moments in the history of Les Invalides, while the second offers a behind-the-scenes look at the site through stunning drone footage.
The temporary exhibition space: Current Events
A dedicated space hosts smaller, thematic exhibitions linked to current events. At the moment, in connection with the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games, the exhibition “Militaires et sportifs. Ça match !” showcases military sports uniforms and the history of the Joinville Battalion.
A more welcoming museum
The revamped visitor route includes newly renovated, more welcoming and functional spaces: the reception area and ticket office are now located under the arcades of the Cour d’Honneur, and the bookstore and shop are accessible right from the main entrance.