In the Seine
- The Archeological Crypt of the Île de la Cité, Paris
10 Mar - 28 Jun 2026
From€11.00
Recommended
From
€17.00
The exhibition Explorations: A Matter of State? at the Musée de l'Armée offers a profound examination of three centuries of French expeditions, positioning them as a strategic nexus where science, power, and military ambition converge. Curated by experts including Lieutenant Colonel Philippe Guyot and Lucie Moriceau-Chastagner, the narrative begins in the wake of the Seven Years' War, a pivotal moment when the French monarchy leveraged vast global expeditions to navigate international rivalries and reaffirm its standing. By tracing this trajectory from 1763 to the present day, the curation highlights how the quest for knowledge has been inextricably linked to the pursuit of national sovereignty and the expansion of territorial influence.
The journey unfolds through a rich tapestry of archives, scientific instruments, and technical objects that chart the evolution of French motivations across distinct eras. The 18th century is characterized by an intellectual and expansionist drive, while the 19th-century focus shifts toward scientific missions and the complex, often controversial legacies of territorial conquests. Visitors are invited to witness the post-war race to space and the exploration of the ocean depths, which served as vital tools for reaffirming French power in a rapidly changing world. This historical significance is grounded in a diverse collection of works of art and original testimonies that transform abstract state strategies into tangible human experiences.
Moving into the contemporary era, the exhibition shifts its gaze toward the abyss, the polar regions, and the digital universe, addressing the pressing geopolitical and environmental issues of our time. The emotional resonance of the display lies in its portrayal of the human challenges faced by explorers—from 18th-century sailors to modern astronauts and data analysts. These figures are presented as the "eye and arm of the state," operating at the far reaches of known territory. By juxtaposing the discovery of the world with modern risks such as climate crises and global conflict, the exhibition prompts a vital reflection on the enduring relationship between scientific discovery and global strategy.
Highlights
- Explore a rare collection of Enlightenment-era archives that document France's first strategic forays into maritime exploration.
- Examine the intricate scientific and technical objects used by 18th-century explorers to map unknown territories.
- View a diverse array of military artifacts that illustrate the link between sovereign power and geographical discovery.
- Discover the contemporary space missions section which highlights the modern race for extraterrestrial sovereignty.
- Witness how digital universes and the abyss are presented as the new frontiers of 21st-century French exploration.
- Study works of art and testimonies that reflect the human challenges faced by explorers over three hundred years.
Frequently Asked Questions about Explorations: A Matter of State?
Yes, access to this temporary exhibition is included with your museum ticket, which also grants entry to the permanent collections, the Dome Church, and Napoleon's Tomb.
A visit to the 'Explorations: A Matter of State?' exhibition typically lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour, in addition to the time spent in the museum's permanent galleries.
Yes, photography for personal and non-commercial use is permitted, though the use of flash and tripods is strictly prohibited to protect the artifacts and avoid disturbing others.
Yes, the exhibition space and the entire Musée de l'Armée complex are fully accessible to visitors using wheelchairs or with limited mobility.
The museum offers various guided tour options and digital tools for temporary exhibitions; it is recommended to check the schedule and book in advance on the museum's official site.
For security and conservation reasons, large bags, suitcases, and backpacks are not allowed. You must use the cloakroom facilities located at the museum entrances.
Musée de l'Armée & Napoleon's Tomb
- Paris
Explore France's storied military history at Paris's Hôtel National des Invalides, where world-class exhibitions showcase prestigious armor and weapons alongside the monumental gilded tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. This cultural landmark in the 7th arrondissement offers a profound journey through centuries of heritage, from medieval combat to the legacies of the French Empire.
Schedules
Opening Hours
- The Musée de l'Armée and Napoleon's Tomb are open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- The last entry to the museum complex is permitted until 5:30 PM, which is 30 minutes before closing.
- On the first Friday of each month, the venue offers late-night openings from 6:00 PM until 10:00 PM.
- The ticket office for these evening sessions closes at 9:00 PM.
Special Days
The museum is closed annually on January 1, May 1, and December 25.
On the first Friday of each month, the venue offers late-night openings from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Visitors can enjoy free admission to the entire museum on July 14 in celebration of Bastille Day.
How to get there
Located in the heart of the 7th arrondissement, the Musée de l'Armée and Napoleon's Tomb sit within the grand Hôtel National des Invalides, a short and scenic walk from the banks of the Seine. This historic complex is exceptionally well-connected, offering visitors a variety of seamless public transport links from across the city.
- Metro: Line 8 to La Tour-Maubourg or Invalides, and Line 13 to Varenne or Invalides.
- RER: Line C to the Invalides station.
- Bus: Lines 28, 63, 69, 82, 83, 87, 92, and 93 all serve stops near the venue, such as Invalides, La Tour-Maubourg, or Vauban – Hôtel des Invalides.
Directions
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