Architectural heritage: the Marais reveals its secrets in 2025

A well-kept secret of the 3rd arrondissement opens up. On September 20 and 21, 2025, the European Heritage Days focus on architecture. Since our last field visit, we’ve been confirming the scale of the Marais’ participation: private mansions, churches and civil buildings freely accessible for two days only.

A national theme centered on architecture

In 2025, the theme of architectural heritage is at the heart of the Journées du Patrimoine program in Paris. This covers several centuries of styles, from Gothic to modern, providing a lively reading of the capital’s architectural evolution. The French Ministry of Culture has confirmed that the 2025 edition will aim to bring the public closer to these often little-known treasures.

This choice reflects a growing interest in the materiality of buildings, over and above the collections they house. Visitors will be able to see how urban planning and creativity have shaped historic districts such as the Marais. According to the City of Paris, more than twenty different locations in the 3rd arrondissement will be open.

The must-sees in the 3rd arrondissement

Among the flagship sites, the Archives Nationales at the Hôtel de Soubise attracts thousands of visitors every year. In 2025, the public will have access to the restored Rocaille salons and original documents retracing several centuries of history. Opening hours will be from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with no reservation required – a rare opportunity for heritage enthusiasts.

The tour also includes local churches, historic libraries and mansions emblematic of the classical age. These buildings offer a glimpse into the splendor of aristocratic residences and the cultural vitality of the Marais, long the administrative and artistic heart of Paris.

Fine arts and other open institutions

The Beaux-Arts de Paris will open its listed site in the 6th arrondissement, offering a dialogue between architectural heritage and artistic training. The cour d’honneur, chapel and library will be open to visitors, enabling them to grasp the continuity between art, education and architecture. An asset for understanding how these spaces have served as a crucible for generations of creators.

Other institutions, such as the French Ministry of Education, will welcome the public to the Hôtel de Rochechouart, unveiling the official architecture and political history of education in France. This exceptional opening reflects a desire to include administrative heritage in the cultural enhancement of the country.

“In 2025, the European Heritage Days will be devoted to architectural heritage, which shapes our landscapes and our cultural memory” – Ministère de la Culture

Experiences and craftsmanship

In previous editions, we have noted the importance of the practical workshops on offer. In 2025, stonemasons, restorers and architects will be sharing their techniques with the public. These workshops showcase rare know-how and demonstrate the fragility of the restoration professions.

For residents of the 3rd arrondissement, these days are an opportunity to explore places that are usually closed to the public, and to talk with experts. Guided tours are designed to tell the story of centuries of architecture through precise anecdotes. This creates a direct transmission and a concrete experience of heritage volumes and decors.

“Discover the former princely apartments and an exceptional exhibition at the Archives Nationales, Hôtel de Soubise” – evous.fr

Confirmed national and Parisian influence

The French Ministry of Culture is coordinating a program that covers the whole of France, but Paris is attracting the largest number of visitors. Several thousand people are expected over two days, with sometimes impressive queues as soon as the gates open. Free admission and exceptional access enhance the event’s appeal.

This 2025 edition is also distinguished by the growing importance of digital technology, with augmented mediation and applications to enhance the visitor experience. A trend confirmed by institutional players, who see these tools as a way of attracting a younger audience. In this way, the event blends tradition and innovation.

The 3rd arrondissement nevertheless retains a central role, with its unrivalled density of heritage sites. The presence of major institutions such as the Archives Nationales gives the district a strategic place in the appropriation of Parisian memory.

Practical information

Dates: September 20 and 21, 2025. Main address: Archives Nationales – Hôtel de Soubise, 60 rue des Francs-Bourgeois, 75003 Paris. Metro: Rambuteau (line 11) or Hôtel-de-Ville (lines 1 and 11). Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. for the Archives, variable for other sites. Access: free, subject to availability. Official information: Ministry of Culture website.

To broaden the experience, the Beaux-Arts de Paris (14 rue Bonaparte, 75006) and the Ministry of Education (110 rue de Grenelle, 75007) will also be accessible. More practical details and itineraries proposed by the City of Paris at What to do in Paris. For luxury and heritage news, see also the Luxury News section.