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Editorial Note
Through this fanzine, we will discuss the importance of the historic building Les Invalides. A brief overview of its history in terms of social, cultural, and political aspects; as well as numerous visual diagrams are presented to support our research. This fanzine helps readers understand more comprehensively how precedents inform design deicions through providing a basic framework of history as it relates to architecture and interior design.
Editors
Maddie Francis Autumn Howard Halie Lago
What’s 4 11
Site
Plan
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Section
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Overview
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Cultural Aspects Conclusive Statement
Inside
Site
Seine River
Eiffel Tower
Les Invalides
Eiffel Tower
Seine River
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Tuileries Garden
Palace de la Concorde
Paris, France Palace de la Concorde Tuileries Garden
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Site Analysis
The enormous structure is situated with the 7th arrondissement of Paris, France. This district contains many cultural landmarks that bring tourists to Paris. The urban surroundings provide a great background for the expressive structure. Containing over 15 courtyards and a central dome church that stands over 360 feet tall, it has become a markable landmark to the Parisan skyline. The overall structure of the building is very symettrical with a collage of square courtyards encompassing the property.
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The overall structure of Les Invalides is reflectant of the changing ideals within the Baroque architectural period. Innovative geometric patterns within the fountains and construction of the dome church enriches the classical form of Renaissance design. The fountains and courtyards are a great example of the many baroque details you will find within Les Invalides.
Greenery & Gardens Building River
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NAPOLEON 8
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Overview A complex of structures and courtyards designed in the 17th century by Jules HardouinMansart in the year 1676. The building was originally designed for the care and housing of disabled veterans, as well as a place of worship. Through the years, parts of Les Invalides were converted into museums and tombs for Napoleon I and others. The style of the building clearly reflects French Baroque architecture and ideals. Situated on the Left Bank of the Seine River, the complex faces a gently sloping esplanade about 1,470 feet in length and 810 feet in breadth. The dome of the church is wrapped in gold leaf and the interior is decorated with a fresco by Charles de La Fosse that depicts Louis IX presenting his sword to Christ.
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Brief History
The sarcophagus was sculpted from blocks of purple /red quartzite originating in Finland. The decision behind this material is reflected in the color purple and its resemblance of imperial power.
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In the 19th century, the floor of the Dome Church was removed and the crypt converted into the tomb of Napoleon I. The tomb contained five red porphyry sarcophagus nested coffins, which were designed by the Italian-born architect Louis-TulliusJoachim Visconti. The tomb was not completed until 1861, some 40 years after Napoleon’s death. The Dome Church also contains Napoleon’s sonNapoleon II, his brothers Joseph and Jerome Bonaparte, and several other marshals and generals of the French army. The crypt of the soldiers chapel, known as the Cave of Governers, also holds the remains of other notables.
Tomb of Napoleon I
Plan Dome Church Floor Plan
The ground plan of the Dome Church reveals the reflection of a Latin Cross floor plan structure. The central aisle leads to the glorious main altar containing a marble and bronze canopy about 23 feet high. The crypt, which contains the tomb of emporer Napoleon I, is about 20 feet deep and 50 feet wide. Four side chapels flank the central worship center with small domes and connecting transept arms. These four chapels contain the tombs of numerous military leaders and relatives to Napoleon I. The interior is decorated with painted cupolas pilasters and columns, low-relief sculptures, and stained glass windows.
Les Invalides Floor Plan 11
Cultural Aspects
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Geometry
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Section
The main building is made up of several wings and courtyards. The most striking piece is the dome that stands about 360 feet tall and is one of the most notable elements to the Paris skyline. The oval sanctuary links together two chapels at the end of the main aisle before reaching the transept; this was dedicated to Louis IX.
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I have a fear that the enormous golden dome which hangs above my head and was designed by Louis Visconti, is going to fall on me; he never really liked me....
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Conclusive Statement The glittering golden roof of the Church Dome is an unmissable landmark in the Parisan landscape, this monument has become the symbol of the Hotel des Invalides. Having gone through 5 restoration processes, this building has served many monumental roles in the history of the French military from the 17th century to present day. The exterior is ornate with doric and corinthian columns, numerous statues, pilasters, and a triangular pediment. The interior reflects dramatized French Baroque ideals with details of gilding, frescos, and sculptures. Overall, it is one of the greatest examples of French Classical architecture.
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