A new museum has just opened its doors in the heart of Paris this Tuesday, July 30, “the Maison de l’Élysée”. Located just opposite the Élysée Palace, it is dedicated to this former private mansion, which has become the official residence of the President of the Republic and is listed as a historic monument. It gives you a behind-the-scenes look at this 300-year-old place of power.
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As soon as you enter, you are immersed in the atmosphere. A huge golden chandelier – straight out of the vestibule of honour of the Élysée Palace – is on the ceiling. Further away behind a window, a perfectly set table, to show the tableware of the French presidency, explains Yannick Desbois, director general of services at the Élysée: “ Here we see plates from the Sèvres factory, two sets of glasses used at state dinners, and pieces of silverware. These are collector’s items that have belonged to the presidency of the Republic for sometimes more than a hundred years. »
In the centre of the museum, a piece of furniture also full of history, the desk of President De Gaulle. The one on which he signed the Constitution in 1958, with original furniture, including the lamps and the writing desk. ” explains Yannick Desbois.
A Libyan sabre, a torch for the Beijing Olympics
Also presented are gifts from foreign heads of state to French presidents, such as a Libyan sabre offered in 2022, a torch from Olympic Games from Beijing in 2008, a superb clock from Uzbekistan. It’s beautiful, it’s from Uzbekistan, it’s very loaded with gold. But it wouldn’t look good in my house. ” jokes Guénaël, a visitor.
Same enthusiasm for Odile. It’s impressive to see these objects in real life! We don’t realize that it’s part of the presidential protocol and that there are so many gifts! »
In a fourth and final room of the museum, there is also a panoramic screen. This screen, accompanied by the voice of the host and history enthusiast Stéphane Bern, traces the architectural developments of the Élysée Palace, from its construction in 1722 to today.
150,000 visitors expected each year
In addition to the museum section, a café is open on the 1st floor. Pastries made by chefs from the Élysée are offered, for prices ranging from 9 to 12 euros. There is also a shop with lots of objects made in France and stamped Élysée, such as pens, notebooks and even pétanque balls.
150,000 visitors are expected each year at the Musée de l’Élysée in Paris. Admission is free.
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