Starting from April 10, and for the first time in its history, the National Assembly Library is getting ready to open its doors to everyone who wishes to visit. This is fantastic news for lovers of unique places, Parisian history, or more generally for libraries, which comes after about a year of massive renovations at the heart of the building. It’s a truly unprecedented event, that brings us joy.
A Testimony of History
Today, it houses over 700,000 works. Among them are exceptional archives, symbols of our country’s history. The manuscript of "La Marseillaise", signed by Rouget de Lisle. The Oath of the Tennis Court, which led to the Revolution.ion française. Or even The Encyclopedia by Diderot and The Confessions of Rousseau. So many notable documents gathered in the library of the National Assembly, which will soon be accessible to everyone.
La magnifique Bibliothèque de l’Assemblée Nationale, à Paris. Elle est réservée au personnel politique, sauf très exceptionnelle demande, qui doit préciser le cadre par courriel à bibliotheque@assemblee-nationale.fr. pic.twitter.com/6bxtWwuksX
— Café Littéraire ☕️ (@C_litteraire) March 25, 2022
Indeed, following a wish from the president of the place, Yaël Braun-Pivet, it should welcome anyone who wishes to visit right after its reopening. Until now, according to a law dating back to March 4, 1796, the works and manuscripts were only accessible to deputies and senators, followed by European elected officials and their collaborators. Only a few researchers were also allowed to consult the 700,000 works, and only upon request.
A place rich in both form and content
On-site, you will very soon be able to discover over 18 kilometers of shelves organized across two floors, as well as a magnificent ceiling painted by Eugène Delacroix.
. A monumental and sumptuous decor, lovingly dubbed by the artist himself as his "Sistine Chapel," and a key highlight of the renovations that have taken place since December 2023. Five magnificent domes located 15 meters high, which are definitely worth a detour.Voir cette publication sur Instagram
The huge renovation was also a wonderful opportunity to remove the carpets and reveal the stunning Hungarian parquet floors, while also bringing the whole building up to thermal standards. It's such a breathtaking place, now rearranged with interactive kiosks and exhibitory spaces focusing on law and legislation, which you can visit on guided tours starting April 10th. And the fantastic news is that while reservations will be required, access will be completely free!
Address: 126 University Street, 75007 Paris, France
