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Description
The Musée national de la Légion d’Honneur et des Ordres de Chevalerie is a hidden gem in the heart of Paris. This military museum is dedicated to the French military and the French Order of the Legion of Honour. Founded in 1832, the museum has been open to the public since 1857. Located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, the museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in French military history.
The museum’s collection includes over 400,000 objects, including military uniforms, weapons, and decorations. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the history of the French military, the French Revolution, and the Napoleonic Wars. One of the museum’s most impressive exhibits is the collection of over 200,000 medals and decorations from the French Order of the Legion of Honour.
The museum’s building itself is a work of art. The Hôtel de Salm, where the museum is located, was built in the late 18th century and is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. The building was originally home to the Prince of Salm-Kyrburg and was later used as the headquarters of the French Order of the Legion of Honour.
Visitors to the Musée national de la Légion d’Honneur et des Ordres de Chevalerie can take a guided tour of the museum’s exhibits or explore the museum at their own pace. The museum also offers educational programs for children and adults, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours.
Overall, the Musée national de la Légion d’Honneur et des Ordres de Chevalerie is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in French military history or neoclassical architecture. With its impressive collection of military artifacts and stunning building, this museum is a true hidden gem in the heart of Paris.
Key Features
- The museum showcases over 400,000 objects, including military uniforms, weapons, and decorations, with a focus on the French military, the French Revolution, and the Napoleonic Wars.
- Notable exhibit: A collection of over 200,000 medals and decorations from the French Order of the Legion of Honour.
- The Hôtel de Salm, the museum's location, is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and holds historical significance as the former home of the Prince of Salm-Kyrburg and the headquarters of the French Order of the Legion of Honour.
Hours and Admissions
- Opening Hours: The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closed on Mondays.
- Admission Fees: General admission is €12, with reduced rates for students and seniors. Free admission is available on the first Sunday of each month.
Accessibility and Amenities
- The museum is equipped with accessibility features to accommodate visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair access and accessible restrooms.
- Amenities include a gift shop, audio guides for self-guided tours, and a café for dining options.
Planning Your Visit
- The best times to visit are during weekday mornings to avoid peak visitor traffic.
- Visitors typically spend around 2-3 hours exploring the museum's exhibits and architecture.
- Recommended itinerary: Start with the collection of medals and decorations, followed by the exhibits on the French military history and neoclassical architecture of the Hôtel de Salm.