Les Invalides: Napoleon's Tomb and Army Museum

Les Invalides: France's Military Heritage

The Hôtel des Invalides, commonly called Les Invalides, is one of Paris's most imposing monuments. Built by Louis XIV in 1670 to house wounded and retired soldiers, this vast complex today houses Napoleon Bonaparte's tomb beneath its glittering golden dome and the Musée de l'Armée, one of the world's most comprehensive military history museums. The 107-meter-tall golden dome is a Paris skyline landmark visible from across the city.

Napoleon's tomb lies in the center of the Dome Church, in a striking red porphyry sarcophagus placed on a green granite base. The Emperor's remains were repatriated from Saint Helena in 1840, 19 years after his death in exile. The tomb's design reflects Napoleon's monumental legacy: six concentric coffins protect the body, and the crypt is surrounded by reliefs commemorating his major achievements and the Napoleonic Code.

The Army Museum spans several wings and covers French military history from the Middle Ages to World War II. The collection includes over 500,000 objects: armour, weapons, uniforms, paintings, and historical documents. The World War I and II sections are particularly powerful, with immersive exhibits that convey the human experience of conflict. Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore the tomb and museum.

History of Les Invalides

Louis XIV commissioned the Hôtel des Invalides in 1670 to provide shelter and care for wounded veterans. The architect Libéral Bruant designed a symmetrical complex with courtyards, a church, and infirmaries. Jules Hardouin-Mansart later added the Royal Chapel, crowned by the golden dome. The Dome Church became the army's church and, from 1840, Napoleon's final resting place.

Practical Information

Book your tickets online to avoid queues. Combine your visit with the Aura Invalides immersive show for a complete experience. The complex is wheelchair accessible, and audioguides are available in multiple languages.

Book Your Visit to Les Invalides

Reserve your skip-the-line tickets through our partner GetYourGuide for guaranteed access and flexible cancellation. Explore Napoleon's tomb and centuries of military history at your own pace.