News From Louis XIV to Napoleon: A Historical Journey Through Paris 04.11.2026

Upper Sixth historians, both IB Diploma and A Level, enjoyed a sunny day in Paris just before half term. After an early start on the Eurostar, they visited the Invalides, the former home for retired soldiers but now the National Army Museum, to investigate on one hand the development of absolutist monarchy under Louis XIV and on the other, the downfall of absolutist monarchy under Louis XVI. Adjoining this critical site is the church of St Louis where Napoleon’s tomb is located and the group enjoyed deconstructing the meanings of the iconography glorifying the Little Emperor.

After a leisurely lunch – steak frites being a popular choice – and free time in the Marais we spotted some demonstrating students outside a Lycée, thankfully a peaceful group who were barbequing courgettes while awaiting the beginning of their own holidays. The Musée Carnavalet nearby contains many artefacts of Parisian history from the periods studied including the last document written by Louis XVI before his suspension as King and poignant everyday items from the royal family’s incarceration before the trial and execution of both parents. Students were excited to link these relics of the past to their classroom learning.