Hôtel des Invalides

Facts

• The monumental tomb of Napolean I is found in the rotunda.
• The prominent, decorated dome of this complex was constructed between 1706 to 1708.
• The dome itself was constructed of wood framing covered with lead sheeting. It consists of three shells, two of which are visible from the interior. The dome's elongated shape, along with the steeple-like lantern and the tall attic below the drum, contribute to its soaring sense of verticality.
• The Dome Church rises high above the complex. It is the greatest example of French 17th Century (or Grand Siecle) religious architecture, just as the palace at Versailles is the outstanding example of civil architecture of this period.
• Modeled after St. Peter's in Rome, the plan consists of a Greek cross inscribed within a square. Unlike St. Peter's, it has an attached circular presbytery, a circular crossing, and diagonal passages to the corner chapels.
• The Invalides was constructed between 1671 and 1676 by order of Louis XIV as a barracks for disabled veterans. Consisting of several buildings in the Baroque style, it is considered one of the finest ensembles of buildings in Paris.