History and heritage of the BnF Richelieu: a jewel of Parisian heritage

Discover the fascinating history of an exceptional landmark

In the heart of Paris’s 2nd arrondissement, the BnF Richelieu site of the Bibliothèque nationale de France (French National Library) is one of the leading institutions dedicated to preserving written heritage. Behind its façades, this unique place tells a story spanning centuries of cultural history, from the age of cardinals to the library of today.

Origins linked to Cardinal Mazarin

The history of the site dates back to the 17th century, when Cardinal Mazarin, a minister during the regency of Anne of Austria, settled in the district. From 1643, he developed a vast architectural complex around the Hôtel Tubeuf, gradually forming what was then known as the Mazarin Palace. One of the most spectacular traces of this era is the Galerie Mazarin, decorated in the 17th century. Its ceilings, painted by Romanelli, still reflect Mazarin’s passion for the arts. In 1721, the collections of the Royal Library were transferred to this site. The palace then became the main centre for preserving the nation's collections, which continued to expand over the centuries.

A landmark transformed by the great architects of the 19th century

In the 19th century, the rapid growth of the collections required major transformations. The Richelieu site was modernised to house an ever-expanding heritage. In 1857, architect Henri Labrouste began a major renovation. He designed the famous Labrouste Reading Room, inaugurated in 1868, celebrated for its luminous domes and innovative metal architecture. A few decades later, Jean-Louis Pascal continued this evolution, launching the Oval Room’s project, completed in the early 20th century. Today, the Oval Room is freely accessible to the public.

Iconic collections and spaces

The Richelieu site preserves an essential part of the Bibliothèque nationale de France’s heritage collections. Ancient manuscripts, prints, photographs, coins, and works of art have been conserved here for centuries. The building also stands out for the quality of its interior architecture. Monumental reading rooms, historic galleries, and decorative elements inherited from the Mazarin Palace reflect the different eras that shaped the site. The BnF Museum also presents a selection of works from these collections, showcasing the diversity and richness of the heritage preserved on site.

The Richelieu project: restoration and reopening

Between 2011 and 2022, the Richelieu site underwent a vast program of restoration and modernisation. This major project renovated the historic spaces while improving visitor facilities and public access. At the same time, the Vivienne Garden was redesigned by landscape architect Gilles Clément. Named Hortus papyrifer, it highlights plants connected to the history of writing and paper. Today, the Richelieu site is an open, vibrant place where researchers, students, and visitors come together to discover this exceptional heritage.

Discover the Richelieu site differently with Mazarin et les Gardiens du Secret

The immersive game Mazarin et les Gardiens du Secret offers an original way to explore the Richelieu site. Through a playful adventure, participants discover the monument while solving puzzles inspired by its history. Visiting the BnF Richelieu means travelling through four centuries of cultural history in the heart of Paris, and discovering this heritage jewel from a fresh and unexpected perspective.

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