Musee des Archives Nationales (National Archives Museum), Paris

Nestled within the Hôtel de Soubise and Hôtel de Rohan—two magnificent buildings erected in 1704-1709 as private residences—rests a plethora of priceless historical documents, safeguarding a wealth of human history. Appreciators of decorative arts will be captivated by the former's well-maintained private apartments of the Prince and Princess de Soubise, among the initial examples of the rococo style, preceding the more somber Baroque opulence of Louis XIV.

The Hôtel de Soubise proudly showcases a museum that features an array of documents dating from as early as 625 CE to the 20th century. Noteworthy exhibits include the Edict of Nantes (1598), the Treaty of Westphalia (1648), the wills of Louis XIV and Napoléon, and the Declaration of Human Rights (1789). Meanwhile, Louis XVI's diary contains the woefully uninformed entry of July 14, 1789—the day when the Bastille was besieged and the French Revolution was launched.

Visitors can marvel at the exhibits and ponder the rococo interiors, or simply take a moment to appreciate the front garden and the grand classical-style façade and arcades. The statues adorning the building façade symbolize the four seasons, much akin to those of Les Printemps department store. Prior to departing, be sure to observe the medieval turrets in the courtyard, marking the location of Porte de Clisson, the sole remainder of a majestic 14th-century mansion.

Tip:
The Hôtel de Rohan is solely accessible to the public during Patrimony Weekend in September.