Élysée Palace, Historic presidential residence in 8th arrondissement, France
The Élysée Palace is a multi-story historic building in the 8th arrondissement of Paris serving as the official presidential residence. Its interior features numerous formal rooms decorated with period furniture, paintings, and tapestries reflecting different eras of French design and craftsmanship.
The building was constructed in 1722 as a private mansion for the Count of Évreux and became the official presidential residence in 1848 during the Second Republic. From that point forward, it evolved into the central seat of French executive power.
The palace serves as the setting for state receptions and official ceremonies where French protocol and international diplomacy unfold in formal rooms. Visitors during heritage days can sense how this building functions as the symbolic heart of French governance.
The palace opens to visitors during European Heritage Days in September, allowing access to selected areas of this political center. It is advisable to check ahead for which sections are available since not all parts of the building are open to the public.
The building contains a bunker constructed during the Cold War, designed to protect the French president from nuclear threats. This underground installation reflects how security concerns from that era shaped the presidential residence.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
