Military School

The Military School, located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, is one of the most prestigious institutions in French military history. Founded in 1750 by King Louis XV on the proposal of Marshal Maurice de Saxe and with the support of Madame de Pompadour and the financier Joseph Pâris Duverney, the Military School aimed to train young cadets of the royal army, including those from noble families but without financial means. The idea was to democratize access to military education, providing opportunities even to less fortunate young people. The architect in charge of the design was Ange-Jacques Gabriel, one of the most renowned of his time. Gabriel conceived a vast complex, grander than the Hôtel des Invalides, with five main pavilions facing the Champ-de-Mars. Construction began in 1751, but was soon slowed down by financial problems due to the numerous wars that had emptied the state’s coffers. Despite these delays, the Military School opened its doors in 1756, although in a reduced version compared to the original plans. The architectural complex of the Military School is a magnificent example of French classicism. The main façade, with its Corinthian columns and symbolic statues of Victory, France, Peace, and Strength, represents a sober and majestic elegance. The main building, called “le Château,” houses the Chapel of Saint Louis, a masterpiece of Louis XVI style, with Corinthian columns and paintings depicting scenes from the saint’s life. The chapel has been used for various purposes over the years, including social events and military ceremonies. One of the most illustrious students of the Military School was Napoleon Bonaparte, who studied there in 1784. The future emperor showed exceptional talent and completed the course in just one year, instead of the two planned. This period of his education deeply influenced his military career and his strategic approach in subsequent campaigns. During the French Revolution, the Military School was closed and the buildings were used for various purposes, including a depot and a barracks for Napoleon’s Imperial Guard. In 1878, the Military School was reopened as the École Supérieure de Guerre, a war school that continues to train French army officers. The restructuring and expansion of the complex in the following years have maintained the importance of the Military School as a center of excellence in military education. The Military School is not only an educational institution but also a symbol of prestige and tradition. It has hosted significant historical events, such as the military degradation of Alfred Dreyfus in 1895, an event that deeply shook French society and led to a heated debate on justice and civil rights. Furthermore, during the Second Empire, the complex was expanded with the addition of new pavilions, making the whole even more imposing.