The Heritage Days are coming up fast! For a whole weekend, from September 21 to 22, you can visit places previously closed to the public, free of charge: secret libraries, little-known gardens and behind-the-scenes tours of emblematic monuments… But this time, we’re inviting you to a totally unusual place: the Lycée Carnot. This school hides a little-known work by Gustave Eiffel. And you’ll be able to admire it with your own eyes, free of charge, for a weekend.
A work by Gustave Eiffel hidden in a Paris high school
This sublime century-old lycée, located in the 17ᵉ arrondissement of Paris, is a magnificent building to discover during the Heritage Days. Formerly known as the École Monge, this prestigious establishment has trained numerous personalities who have marked our times: from politicians like Jacques Chirac to artists, musicians and scientists.
This immense school building is made up of several wings, and magnificent, charming interior courtyards. But the most notable is undoubtedly the Cour d’Honneur, located at the main entrance. In this charming courtyard, you won’t want to miss the imposing war memorial, where 341 names of teachers, civil servants and former students are inscribed. Indeed, the school played an important role during the First World War, becoming a Franco-Belgian war hospital.
But the highlight of the show is the spectacular Hall Eiffel: the heart of the building. An immense hall, 80 meters high and 30 meters wide, topped by a magnificent glass roof designed by Gustave Eiffel. A very important part of the school, it serves as a recreation area, sports hall and ceremonial hall. This absolutely dazzling space often attracts… fashion. Indeed, during Fashion Week, this immense covered courtyard is transformed to welcome the finest haute couture houses: Balenciaga, Lacoste, Kenzo, Virgil Abloh…
Known affectionately as “la marquise” or “hall Guy-Môquet”, it is one of Gustave Eiffel’s most secret works. And you’ll be able to admire it from every angle on Saturday September 20 and Sunday September 21… You’ll be welcomed and guided by the students, who’ll tell you all about the history of the site and its hidden gems.
📍 Location: 145, boulevard Malesherbes, 75017 Paris
📅 Dates: September 21 and 22
