How to visit Hotel des Invalides and Napoleon’s Tomb
Les Invalides is an immense architectural complex built in the 17th century to house a residence for French soldiers retired from military service.
Today it houses several museums, including the Musée de l’Armée (Army Museum), a must-see if you are a fan of the subject.
And in the complex there is also the Dome Church, famous not only for its golden dome but also for the Tomb of Napoleon that is located inside.
What to see in Les Invalides
At the Hotel des Invalides it is possible to visit several museums. The most important of them all is the Army Museum, in French Musée de lÁrmée.
This museum exhibits numerous weapons and armor that were used in the past, as well as various photographs arranged chronologically and that pay special attention to what happened in the two world wars of the 20th century.
You also have the possibility to see more than 100 models of forts that were used by Louis XVI to prepare the strategy in the wars.
But in addition to its museums, we have the Dome Church, whose golden dome dominates the Paris skyline and is one of its symbols.
Its construction was completed in 1706 and since 1840 it has housed the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte.
There is also the tomb of his brother José Bonaparte (known as Pepe Botella in Spain) and other famous French figures such as General Lasalle and Marshal Foch.
Napoleon ‘s tomb is too overloaded and lavish for our liking, but it is a place that must be visited due to the importance that the Emperor had in the history of humanity.
What to see near Les Invalides
Near Les Invalides you have the National Assembly, located in the Palais Bourbon and which stands out for its staircase on the main façade where there are various Greek columns and 4 spectacular statues.
You also have the Alexander III Bridge, from where you also get the best views of Les Invalides.
In the middle is the great esplanade that takes you to the door and whose sides you can see several very interesting buildings.
You can find more information on the official website of Les Invalides.
