History and visit the Hotel des Invalides in Paris

History and visit the Hotel des Invalides in Paris

The Hotel des Invalides is classified as a historical monument in 1910 and in 1963. Construction of the hotel was made between 1670 and 1679. It measures 107 meters in height at the top of the dome. It was built to accommodate a military hospital, the Saint Louis des Invalides church, a retirement home for veterans, and a mausoleum. Currently, it houses the Army Museum, the Museum of the Order of the Liberation, and the contemporary history museum. The architects who created this building are Liberal Bruant and Jules Hardouin-Mansart.

The Hotel des Invalides was built following a royal decree dated February 24, 1670. Its construction was done under the orders of Louis XIV. It is served by the metro Varenne, Invalides Metro and Metro Tower Maubourg. Its function was to assist and help disabled army soldiers to give them a peaceful life. However, the construction of this hotel also had a political character. King Louis XIV wanted to relocate invalids because they were considered unsightly. He also wanted to improve his image and the image of the French army. Among eight projects proposed to the king, that of Liberal Bruant was chosen. The plan of the palace monastery of Philip II of Spain was redesigned. The building was flanked by five courtyards, including the royal courtyard. Part of the courtyard was demolished after construction, giving way to the great dome. The church was built on a slight rise of land. Its construction lasted for thirty years and was managed mainly by the architect Louvois. The construction of this religious institution ended on August 28, 1706. On the death of the architect, he was buried on July 19, 1691, in the church. After finishing the work, the place became a popular promenade spot with Parisians.

At the beginning of construction, some barracks were planned. But following the draft Liberal Bruant, a huge building along with the church and the royal court were programmed. The hotel also houses an invalid hospital, a military hospital and a factory for the manufacture of military uniforms. Workrooms were converted into bedrooms. After the death of Napoleon, the hotel was renamed the Royal Hotel des Invalides and became a representative of the Bonapartist legacy. The artillery museum moved into the hotel in 1872, while the historical museum of weapons settled in 1896. The museums have been brought together in one museum in 1905 named the Army Museum. A statue of Napoleon in the courtyard has been replaced by another by Napoleon III. The latter statue was dismantled by the municipality of Paris, while the first was placed in the roundabout of Courbevoie. Currently, the Hotel des Invalides still receives war invalids. The national institution for disabled is responsible for this function. A large mass was celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI on September 13, 2008.

The Saint-Louis des Invalides church was opened in 1679. The colonnade of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome has been imitated by the architect Jules Hardouin Mansart for this church. The colonnade is crowned by a dome. A large number of French armed forces are buried in the grounds of the hotel invalid.

Discover the surroundings of Hotel des Invalides in Paris

The Hotel des Invalides, renowned for its golden dome and historical significance, is surrounded by several must-see attractions in Paris. A stone’s throw away is the Rodin Museum, dedicated to the works of French sculptor Auguste Rodin. Here, visitors can admire the famous sculptures such as ‘The Thinker’ and ‘The Gates of Hell’, set within serene gardens.

Just across the Seine, explore the grand boulevards of the Champs-Élysées, culminating at the majestic Arc de Triomphe. This iconic avenue offers upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options, providing a quintessential Parisian experience.

Nearby, the Musée d’Orsay showcases an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces from artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas. The museum itself, a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station converted into a museum, is as captivating as the artworks it houses.

For those interested in modern architecture, the striking Quai Branly Museum, featuring indigenous art and cultures from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas, is located just a short walk along the river.

To comfortably explore these attractions, consider using a minivan car service from Paris Shuttle Airports. This service offers convenient transportation options that allow you to visit these sites at your own pace, without the hassle of public transport.

Transfer to the Hotel des Invalides in Paris

The Hotel des Invalides, situated 17.8 km from Orly Airport and 32.8 km from Charles de Gaulle Airport, is easily accessible from major Paris airports. This historic site is close to central Paris, enabling convenient transfers via metro, bus, or luxury shuttle services. Visitors can enjoy direct access to its rich history and magnificent architecture, enhanced by various transportation options.

While taxis provide a quick route to the city, the shuttle service offers a balanced cost and convenience, ideal for those carrying luggage or tired from long flights. With its strategic location and the array of travel methods available, the Hotel des Invalides is not only a symbol of French military history but also a testament to Parisian accessibility.