The École Militaire is an 18th-century military academy in Paris, France, set at the far end of the Champ de Mars. It is a monument in the classical French style, and its long, formal facade gives a useful sense of the building's age and purpose.
The site is a natural companion to a visit to the Eiffel Tower, which stands on the same Champ de Mars. Seen together, the two offer a contrast between a building of the 1700s and a structure of a later era, and the open green ground between them makes for an easy walk.
What to expect
- Architecture: the classical French design is the main attraction, best appreciated from the outside and from the wide lawns in front of it.
- History: the academy is connected with Napoleon, who once studied there, which adds a personal thread to the visit.
- Setting: it sits in the Île-de-France region, so it pairs well with other central Paris sights nearby.
Planning your visit
Because the École Militaire is a monument you can admire from its grounds, it suits a relaxed stop rather than a long indoor visit. Combine it with time at the Champ de Mars and the Eiffel Tower, and give yourself a few unhurried minutes to take in the facade and the surrounding space before moving on.