Tourist Information
The Hôtel des Invalides was commissioned by King Louis XIV in 1670. He wanted to provide his injured war veterans with a place to rest. He offered them work in the tapestry, clothing or illumination workshops. In 1804, Napoleon awarded the very first Légion d'honneur in the Chapel at the Invalides. Over the years, the Invalides have been put to many uses. At times a hospital, at others a military pantheon, it finally became a museum. In 1871 the Musée Historique de l'Armée moved into the Invalides. In 1905, the pieces from the Artillery museum were added to the collection. Its ancient weapons, suits of armour and artillery pieces make it one of the most important museums of military art and history in the world. Lovers of things military will enjoy this museum situated in this exceptional building. http://www.invalides.org/