École Militaire, Military academy in 7th district, Paris, France
The military academy sits at the southern end of the Champ de Mars, displaying Baroque architecture with Corinthian columns and a central dome. The complex spreads across a large grounds with several connected buildings, courtyards, and green spaces.
King Louis XV founded this institution in 1751 as a training ground for young men without financial means. It became a center of military education and continues to shape French military tradition today.
The place embodies French military pride and has shaped the nation's identity for centuries. Today, military personnel use the grounds and buildings daily, giving the location a living, working atmosphere.
The location is easily reached via the La Motte-Picquet-Grenelle metro station and offers guided tours at set times. Visitors should check opening times and access rules in advance, as military activities may affect when you can visit.
Napoleon Bonaparte studied here from 1784 to 1785 and later returned to establish his command headquarters. His time there left a deep mark on the place and made it a symbol of French military leadership.
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