Napoleon Bonaparte, a towering figure in French history, lies in state at Les Invalides, a captivating complex in the heart of Paris. Le Dôme des Invalides, a gleaming golden dome, crowns the complex and stands as a beacon against the Parisian skyline.
A History of Military Grandeur
Les Invalides, a grand architectural ensemble in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, boasts an impressive collection of buildings and green spaces. Officially known as the Hôtel National des Invalides, it houses a captivating history of France’s military heritage, including a hospital and a retirement home for veterans. King Louis XIV commissioned its construction in 1670, and the complex was completed six years later. Within its walls lie several museums, including the Musée de l’Armée (Army Museum), Musée des Plans-Reliefs (Museum of Military Models), and the Musée d’Histoire Contemporaine (Museum of Contemporary History). A distinct royal chapel, the Église du Dôme, was also erected to celebrate the monarchy and the military.
A Monument to Military Heroes
Under Napoleon I, Le Dôme transformed into a grand mausoleum, honoring military greats and housing the remains of renowned figures like Aiglon, Joseph and Jérôme Bonaparte, as well as generals like Bertrand, Duroc, Foch, and Lyautey. A major renovation in 1842 significantly altered the dome, including the creation of a space for the emperor’s final resting place. In 1861, Napoleon Bonaparte’s remains were finally laid to rest here.
A Glimpse into Napoleon’s Legacy
Beneath the gleaming gold-plated dome of Le Dôme, Napoleon’s tomb rests on the second floor. Two bronze doors bear the inscription of Napoleon’s timeless words. Twelve statues representing Napoleon’s twelve military victories surround his tomb. The hallway leading to the tomb features ten bas-reliefs depicting the emperor’s conquests.
A Monumental Tomb
In the heart of the dome, amidst a vibrant ambiance, the emperor’s coffin lies within a circular crypt. Napoleon’s tomb is crafted from red sandstone resting on a green granite base. His body rests within a six-layered coffin constructed from iron, mahogany, lead, ebony, and oak. Beneath the tomb, a marble floor features a laurel wreath design and inscriptions commemorating Napoleon’s eight greatest victories.
Accessing the Historical Complex
Les Invalides offers access to both the Dôme Des Invalides and the Musée de l’Armée, the national military museum of France, for 9.50 euros for adults. Children are granted free entry. From April 1st to October 31st, the complex is open from 10 AM to 6 PM, while from November 1st to March 31st, the opening hours are from 10 AM to 5 PM. Depending on your chosen mode of transport, you can access different parts of the complex from various directions.
A Journey Through French History
Beyond Napoleon’s tomb, Les Invalides boasts a wealth of exhibitions within its museums, offering a fascinating journey through French history. If you find yourself in Paris, visiting Les Invalides is an experience not to be missed.
