The Cour des Comptes opens its doors for the 2026 Heritage Days
Stepping inside a listed monument, chatting with magistrates, and leaving with a clearer understanding of public finances: that is exactly what the 2026 Heritage Days at the Cour des Comptes have in store. On 19 and 20 September 2026, the Palais Cambon throws open its doors to the general public, free of charge and with no booking required.
An exceptional building in the heart of the 1st arrondissement
The Palais Cambon is unlike any other building in Paris. Designed by architect Constant Moyaux, it was built specifically to house the Cour des Comptes, and every architectural detail bears that purpose. The facades, the grand staircase, and the Tour Chicago, another work by Moyaux, are all listed on the supplementary inventory of historic monuments, a testament to the quality of the craftsmanship carried out at the turn of the 20th century, remarkably well preserved to this day.
Inside, the Galerie Philippe Séguin immediately draws the eye with a fresco by Bernar Venet. Further along, the Grand’Chambre hosts the institution’s most symbolic annual events. These spaces, ordinarily off-limits to the public, are fully revealed during the European Heritage Days.
For visitors with an eye for symbolism, the building’s architecture is rich in allegories tied to the institution’s oversight mission. The facades and interior ornaments tell, for those who know how to read them, the story of an institution founded by Napoleon I in 1807 to audit the public accounts of the state, national public bodies, public enterprises, and the social security system.
What the 2026 Heritage Days actually have on offer
The visit is self-guided and clearly signposted, allowing everyone to explore at their own pace. A free audio guide, downloadable on a smartphone, accompanies visitors throughout their tour. No human guide is needed to make the most of the experience.
That said, the human element remains central to the event. Magistrates and staff from the Cour will be on hand to present their roles, discuss their work, and answer questions from the public. This direct contact with the people behind the institution is one of the standout features of this edition.
In addition, Pierre Moscovici, First President of the Cour, will lead an open citizens’ dialogue for all visitors. This exchange offers a rare opportunity to put questions directly to the head of one of France’s great republican institutions.
- Free entry, no advance booking required
- Open from 10:30 to 17:30 (last entry) on both days
- Free audio guide available to download on smartphone
- Citizens’ dialogue with Pierre Moscovici, First President of the Cour
- Sign-language tours scheduled throughout the weekend
A programme designed for the whole family
Children are very much part of the picture at these 2026 Heritage Days. A specially designed activity booklet lets young visitors follow the tour in a fun and interactive way, while learning about the Cour’s missions. A dedicated space for children is set aside within the building.
On top of that, the association La Cour des contes will be staging storytelling performances on the theme of public finances. These shows offer an imaginative way into a subject that can often feel dry, and are aimed at adults and children alike.
Visitors with disabilities are encouraged to get in touch in advance at [email protected] so that their visit can be arranged in the best possible conditions. Sign-language tours are also scheduled over the weekend, with times to be confirmed on the institution’s website.
The 43rd edition of the European Heritage Days: not to be missed
This year marks the 43rd edition of the European Heritage Days. Across Paris and Île-de-France, a host of monuments, museums, and institutions are opening their doors on the weekend of 19 and 20 September. The Cour des Comptes stands out as one of the must-see stops of this edition, alongside other great institutions in the capital.
Because beyond the building itself, it is a living institution that the public is invited to discover during these Heritage Days. The Cour des Comptes continues to evolve in service of citizens, and this weekend offers a window onto both its current work and its long history.
The full programme will be available shortly on the Cour des Comptes’ official website. In the meantime, one thing is certain: entry is free, no ticket is needed, and the Palais Cambon will be waiting for you from 10:30 on Saturday 19 September 2026.
