The Arsenal library Tour, in English

Located in the Bastille district, the Bibliothèque de l’Arsenal is the former residence of the grand masters of artillery. From 1756, the Marquis de Paulmy built up a vast encyclopedic collection, which was transformed into a public library during the French Revolution.

In 2012, it was awarded the “Maison des Illustres” label because it combines a library as well as private historical rooms in a private mansion. Some beautiful Renaissance and early 17th century decors remain on one side of the building. At the other end a more classic interior decorating has been preserved. The music room is a testament to the rococo style. You can also admire the beautiful cabinet of the “strong women”, with representations of famous women in history.

The Arsenal library offers over a million documents for consultation: books, journals, prints, maps and plans, music. There is a precious collection of manuscripts (the Psalter of Saint Louis), unexpected archives such as those of the Bastille.

Its reading rooms are part of the BnF Research Library. It is the “Bibliothèque Nationale“‘s third entity with the Richelieu historical site as well as the new François Mitterrand building.

On top of its reading rooms, period rooms as well as other artefacts and fine objects, the Arsenal library also shelters unique papers. Such as the Saint Simonists’ archives about this utopian movement pledging for social equality in the 19th century.

The private tour ticket is included.
Meetign point:
Outside Sully Morland metro exit
21, Bd Morland
Paris, 75004 France

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