Les Invalides-Paris: A Must-Visit for Napoleon Enthusiasts

Les Invalides-Paris-France: A Must-Visit for Napoleon Enthusiasts.

What is Les Invalides-Paris- France?

Les Invalides is a complex of buildings in Paris, France, that houses a number of museums and monuments, including the final resting place of Napoleon Bonaparte. This historic complex houses several museums, including the Musée de l’Armée and Musée des Plans-Reliefs, the Musée de l’Ordre de la Libération, and L’Eglise de St Louis.

For those interested in Napoleon Bonaparte’s life and legacy, Les Invalides is a must-visit attraction.

The complex:

Was founded by Louis XIV in 1670 as a home for retired soldiers.

The Hôtel des Invalides:

As it was originally called, was a massive complex that included a hospital, a church, and a number of other buildings.

In 1676, the construction of the Dôme des Invalides, a large domed church, was completed. The Dôme des Invalides is now the most famous building in the complex and houses the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte.

Napoleon’s body was returned to France from Saint Helena in 1840. It nwas buried in the Dôme des Invalides in a lavish ceremony. The funeral procession was led by King Louis-Philippe and included thousands of soldiers and civilians.

In addition to Napoleon’s tomb, the Dôme des Invalides also houses the tombs of a number of other French military figures, including Marshals Foch and Lyautey.

The Musée de l’Armée: which is located in front of the Invalides, houses a vast collection of military artifacts, including Napoleon’s personal belongings, uniforms, and weapons.

The Musée des Plans-Reliefs: is located in the Invalides, houses a collection of detailed military maps. These maps used by French military leaders to plan their campaigns.

Here are some additional details about the complex:

• The Hôtel des Invalides was originally built to house 4,000 retired soldiers. However, by the end of the 18th century, it was housing over 12,000 soldiers.
• The Dôme des Invalides is 107 meters (351 feet) tall and has a diameter of 86 meters (282 feet).
• The tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte is made of red quartzite and is topped with a bronze statue of the emperor.
• The Musée de l’Armée houses over 500,000 artifacts, including Napoleon’s sword, hat, and uniform.
• The Musée des Plans-Reliefs houses over 1,000 military maps, including maps of the French Revolution, the Napoleonic Wars, and the First World War.

However, Les Invalides is perhaps best known as the final resting place of Napoleon Bonaparte. 

Thanks

Manal Raafat

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