Musee de l’Armee des Invalides

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The Musée de l'Armée prides itself on being one of the world's most prominent military and art museums because of the diversity of its internal collections and the time periods they represent. Some magnificent collections from the Middle Ages to the Modern Era at the Musée de l'Armée, an army museum.


The Hôtel National des Invalides, which was built in 1905, is home to the Musée de l'Armée. It was founded in 1905, immediately following the World's Fair, and is the product of the union of the 1796-founded Musée d'Artillerie and the original Musée de l'Armée, which was founded a century later. It spans across an area of 8,000 m2 and consists of two churches and a museum with about 500,000 items.


Things to do at the Musee de L'Armee: 

  • Experience the enormous collections of more than 500,000 military-related artifacts from the middle ages.

The pieces from a particular theme are used to complete the presentation of the permanent collections, which are organized chronologically into 'historical' collections that reflect different eras from Antiquity to the conclusion of World War II (emblems, paintings, military decorations...). The historical exhibitions either feature these theme collections or gather them in particular sections.


  • Visit the festive displays of outstanding artillery collections in the center courtyard.

The restoration of the historical collection of images from the two world wars is a must-see component of these displays. The 'Charles de Gaulle Monument,' an interactive multimedia space devoted to former French President Charles de Gaulle, is well worth visiting.


  • The following display areas can be found in the museum:

1. Ancient Department, 13th–17th-century old armour and weaponry

2. Modern Department, 1643–1870, from Louis XIV to Napoleon III

3. Special exhibition spaces Napoleon I's Tomb and the Dôme des Invalides.

4. The Two World Wars: Contemporary Department, 1871–1945

5. Saint-Louis des Invalides Cathedral, home of the Charles de Gaulle Monument


In addition to the incredible collection, you can admire the stunning architecture of this location.

  • The museum's structure is designed in the conventional Baroque manner.

The numerous balconies and arches give the cream-colored building its finishing touch. Napoleon's tomb, which is well-decorated and flanked by impressive columns, arches, and statues, is located in the center of the dome tower. The Dôme des Invalides, which contains Napoleon I's mausoleum, is the attraction.


  • Exhibitions

The museum plans frequent exhibitions and tours for its guests to help them learn about all the important events in France's military history. The young adult population has recreational events planned regularly. A great cultural-historical show is added to the museum's program twice a year, in the spring and the fall. You are welcome to stay and continue your conversation with the curators and museum restorers. Take this chance to share any improved ideas you may have for the displays on show here.


  • Concerts

Several times a year, classical performances are held at the Musée de l'Armée. Priority is given to renowned ensembles like the Paris Conservatory Orchestra, the French Army Choir, the Air Force Harmony Orchestra, and the Symphony Orchestra of the Republican Guard.


  • Movies at the Museum

The theatre of the museum has frequent free movie showings.


  • Activities & Lectures

The Army Museum hosts various events and lectures as part of the cultural program. Although there is no charge for admission, reservations are necessary.


  • Bookstore

The reception area at the entrance to Place Vauban houses a bookstore with a wide selection of publications concerning the collections of the Musée de l'Armée, as well as souvenirs and postcards.


  • Café

Visitors can unwind and eat in a lovely setting at the café-restaurant 'Le carré des Invalides' entrance on Place Vauban.


  • Paris's Le Musée de l'Armée's neighbouring attractions

The 7th Arrondissement of Paris exudes wealth and charm and is dominated by the Iron Lady, aka the Eiffel Tower, and the golden dome of the Invalides. Intimate streets dotted with boulangeries, delis, and fromageries that serve the well-off residents of this premium quartier are tucked away among famous landmarks.


Nothing compares to this neighborhood's human scale, walkability, markets, and excellent restaurants.


After a long day of exploration, your Paris Perfect apartment is waiting for you, where you can relax and enjoy exquisite cuisine while taking in the breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower.

  • imageDuration Required
    2 hours

Address of Musee de l’Armee des Invalides

129 rue de Grenelle Hotel National des Invalides, 75007 Paris France

Opening & Closing time of Musee de l’Armee des Invalides

  • Monday
    10:00-18:00
  • Tuesday
    10:00-21:00
  • Wednesday
    10:00-18:00
  • Thursday
    10:00-18:00
  • Friday
    10:00-18:00
  • Saturday
    10:00-18:00
  • Sunday
    10:00-18:00
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Musee de l’Armee des Invalides

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