Immersive Game at the BnF Richelieu: Mazarin and the Keepers of the Secret

Dive into the heart of the Richelieu site of the Bibliothèque nationale de France and uncover Cardinal Mazarin’s greatest secret.
This immersive experience transforms the exploration of an exceptional heritage site into a real investigation game where observation, decoding, and deduction will guide you through a mystery that has remained unsolved for four centuries.

The Story Begins

While conducting research for a heritage enhancement project, a scholar at the Richelieu site comes across a surprising detail within an ancient document discovered on Gallica, the digital library of the Bibliothèque nationale de France. His discovery leads him to an unknown testament of Cardinal Mazarin, suggesting the existence of a hidden treasure concealed somewhere within the former palace of the Cardinal now the historic heart of the BnF Richelieu site.

It seems that, for generations, Keepers of the Secret have watched over this legacy, leaving subtle clues throughout the museum’s collections and the Richelieu spaces.
But as his investigation progresses, the researcher feels he is no longer alone. Eyes seem to follow him; strange incidents occur his researcher’s card is deactivated, books vanish, suspicious glances linger... Realizing he can no longer continue safely, he entrusts the investigation to others.

This is where you come in. Visitors like any others seemingly curious, harmless… yet secretly taking part in a true investigation.

An Investigation at the Heart of a Living Place

Form a team of at least three players and embark on an inquiry where observation, reasoning, and decoding are your best allies. Armed with your investigator’s briefcase containing riddles, codes, clues, and mysterious objects, explore remarkable spaces: the sumptuous Galerie Mazarin with its painted ceilings, the Cabinet précieux filled with treasures, the Salle Barthélemy and its medal cabinets, and many other history-laden rooms.

What makes this adventure unique is its authentic setting. The Richelieu site is a living place, frequented daily by readers and scholars. You will therefore move through the spaces discreetly, blending in so as not to reveal your mission. This need for stealth adds intensity to your experience: you must solve the puzzles while remaining unnoticed among legitimate visitors. Stay alert and don’t get caught!

Each room holds a fragment of the secret. You’ll have to decipher coded messages, closely observe architectural and artistic details, deduce hidden logic in spatial layouts, and connect clues concealed in the collections.
The puzzles draw on diverse mechanics some require cross-referencing information found in different locations, others rely on analytical thinking to crack secret codes, and a few simply test your sharp eye for detail. One by one, you’ll piece together the mystery provided you collaborate and connect your discoveries.

This 1h30 investigation transforms the discovery of the Bibliothèque nationale de France – Richelieu site into an interactive quest, where history, art, and heritage become the keys to solving Mazarin’s riddle. Wander through historic galleries, explore the richness of the museum’s collections, and discover spaces where contemporary architecture dialogues with the palace’s past offering new perspectives on this Parisian masterpiece. The journey culminates with surprising revelations in prestigious areas, including the spectacular Salle Ovale.

A Cultural Experience for All Investigators

This immersive game is perfect for families with children aged 10 and up, mystery enthusiasts, history and architecture lovers, and groups of friends seeking an original activity in Paris.
Teams play independently, fostering a stimulating dynamic where every participant plays a vital role in solving the case.

Entirely indoors, the experience is ideal for weekdays or weekends, whatever the weather. The Richelieu site offers an exceptional setting that will captivate both young and old. Beyond the game itself, it’s a rare opportunity to discover one of Paris’s most beautiful monuments from a completely new angle.

Extend Your Visit

After your game session, the researcher invites you to continue exploring the site at your own pace. Discover the museum’s spaces and collections the recently renovated Richelieu site houses remarkable heritage treasures. Admire the Jardin Vivienne and its papyrus plants, the majestic Salle Labrouste, or simply soak up the unique atmosphere of this emblematic landmark of French culture.