Hôtel de la Marine

Interesting facts

1. 1

   It served as the storage facility for the French Crown Jewels before they were moved to the Louvre.

2. 2

   The building was the site of the first public museum in France, as the Intendant’s collection was occasionally shown to the public by appointment during the 18th century.

3. 3

   A major heist of the French Crown Jewels occurred here in 1792 during the French Revolution.

4. 4

   The French Naval Ministry occupied the building from 1789 until 2015.

5. 5

   The building contains a highly rare surviving example of an 18th-century 'cabinet de travail' (private study) with original decor.

6. 6

   The restoration process involved the use of traditional artisanal techniques, including gold leaf gilding and specialized silk weaving for wall coverings.

7. 7

   It is one of two identical buildings flanking the Rue Royale, the other being the Hôtel de Crillon.

Overview

The Hôtel de la Marine is an 18th-century landmark situated on the Place de la Concorde, formerly serving as the Garde-Meuble de la Couronne. Designed by Ange-Jacques Gabriel, the architect of the Place de la Concorde, it housed the French Royal furniture collection and later served as the headquarters of the French Navy for over 200 years. Following a major restoration completed in 2021, the site now functions as a museum managed by the Centre des monuments nationaux. Visitors access restored 18th-century apartments, including the Intendant’s state rooms, and the grand ceremonial salons. The site features the Al Thani Collection, which exhibits a diverse array of international art pieces spanning several millennia. Visitors use an immersive 'Confidant' headset, which provides spatial audio and narrative storytelling as they walk through the chambers. The building retains original architectural features, including period parquets, wall coverings, and restored gilded decorations. The courtyard, covered by a glass roof, acts as the central circulation hub for the site's various tours.

Insider tips

• Choose the 'Grand Tour' to access the most significant state rooms and the Loggia.

• Book your entry slot online in advance to guarantee access, even if you hold a pass.

• Allow time to visit the inner courtyard, which offers a unique perspective on the modern glass architecture integrated into the historic building.