As you know, the Journées du patrimoine (Heritage Days) are one of the major events of the autumn. You can discover prestigious sites that are rarely open to the public. These include the Sorbonne’s inter-university library, the Eiffel Tower’s elevator machinery and the Comédie française. This time, we take you to a little-known place: the Italian Embassy in Paris. Hidden away in an elegant mansion in the 7th arrondissement, this refined address reveals all its secrets over the course of a weekend… Ready to discover one of the capital’s jewels?
A secret Paris mansion to visit for free…
Nestled in Paris’s chic 7th arrondissement, the Italian Embassy is a splendid place that few Parisians know about. Housed in the Hôtel particulier de La Rochefoucauld-Doudeauville, also known as the Hôtel de Boisgelin, the Italian Embassy will be open to visitors on Saturday September 20 only.
Since 1937, this 18th-century mansion has housed the Italian Embassy in France. Built in the Louis XV style, the building has been transformed by its many owners and tenants. La Rochefoucauld acquired it in 1864 and, with the help of his architect Henri Parent, helped transform the premises. Thanks to him, the grand staircase of the hôtel particulier, entirely in marble, was created. The staircase was inspired by the Queen’s Staircase at the Château de Versailles.
During your visit, you’ ll be dazzled by the gilded woodwork and the multitude of details hidden in its majestic salons, with their hint of Italy. Your visit is bound to include the impressive tapestries adorning the walls of the central staircase. These were produced by the Gobelins manufactory between 1740 and 1762: a work of rare finesse! You can also enjoy the immense garden, a true haven of peace in the heart of the capital.
Among the most remarkable salons are the Salon de la Mappemonde with its gigantic planisphere, the Chinese Salon and the Sicilian Theatre. The latter features hand-painted woodwork straight from Palermo’s Palazzo Butera.
To gain access to this prestigious venue, you’ll need to register at the beginning of September. Each tour lasts around 45 minutes and includes the first floor, second floor and garden. It would be a shame not to take advantage…
📍 Location: 51 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris
📅 Date: only on September 20, on registration
💶 Price: free of charge