Did you know that the Palace of the Legion of Honour was once a private residence? This stunning building before you the Palace of the Legion of Honour has a fascinating history. Originally built in 1781 as the Hotel de Salm for Frederick III Prince of Salm-Kyrburg it was designed by the talented Pierre Rousseau. The Prince’s time there was short-lived unfortunately. His life ended tragically during the French Revolution in 1794.
The Palace of the Legion of Honour is more than just a beautiful building. It holds immense historical significance. After the Revolution Napoleon Bonaparte established the Legion of Honour in 1802. The first awards were given in 1804. The Hotel de Salm became the perfect home for the administration of this prestigious order. The Comte de Lacepede the first Grand Chancellor purchased the building in 1804.
The Palace of the Legion of Honour’s interior is truly opulent. Imagine lavish rooms decorated in Empire style. The furniture boasts pieces from destroyed palaces and chateaux. Think of treasures from the Palais des Tuileries Chateau de Saint-Cloud and Chateau de Compiègne. These exquisite pieces add to the palace’s grandeur. Even today events and receptions are held under its impressive dome.
The Palace of the Legion of Honour suffered a devastating blow in 1871. During the Paris Commune much of the interior was destroyed by fire. Only the facade remained. But the story doesn’t end there. Architect Anastase Mortier masterfully rebuilt the interior. We can admire today his restoration work reflecting the Empire style’s glory.
The Palace of the Legion of Honour isn’t just a museum. It is a working office. The Legion of Honour still operates here. Awards are given annually to deserving individuals. These range from authors to high-ranking members of the French military and government. A tour through the building takes you past conference rooms and offices. Eventually you reach the more elaborate rooms used for special events.
One highlight is the Bureau du Grand Chancelier. Its wood and gilt bronze are exquisite. The original painting Napoleon en costume de sacre by Robert Lefebvre is there. The stunning blue wallpaper with gold laurel wreaths is a testament to Napoleon’s legacy.
The Palace of the Legion of Honour continues to impress. The Rotunda’s ceiling is a masterpiece. It’s said to have inspired Thomas Jefferson. The ceiling features Napoleon Bonaparte at different stages of his life. Oval medallions portray four great French rulers. These include Francois Ier Louis XIV Charlemagne and Napoleon. Figures like Jeanne d’Arc and Sainte Geneviève also appear. The furniture below belonged to Princess Elisa Baciocchi Napoleon’s sister.
This Palace of the Legion of Honour truly is a must-see. The Salon de l’Aurore features the painting L’Aurore chassant la nuit. The Salon des Muses is dedicated to the nine muses of Zeus. The Salle a Manger boasts a table once used by Napoleon III. The Salon des Grands Chanceliers showcases military insignia and a portrait of a young Napoleon. The Salon des Maisons displays furniture from the Chateau de Saint-Cloud. Finally the Vestibule features a painting of General Vinoy and statues of L’Odyssée and Pénélope.
So as you leave the Palace of the Legion of Honour remember this story. Remember the resilience the artistry the history held within these walls. You’ve witnessed a true gem of Parisian history.