Photo : ©Cité de l'Histoire
Cité de l'Histoire, the immersive experience through French history
Forget dusty history books and step directly into the heart of the action with this spectacular immersive experience. From the Roman Empire to legendary maritime discoveries, witness centuries of French heritage come to life through cutting-edge technology and sensory storytelling.
La Cité de l'Histoire
About
Located under the Grande Arche at La Défense, the Cité de l'Histoire offers a spectacular immersion into the heart of history. Through a vast journey spanning twelve centuries of French history and giant 360° projections, this technological space brings the stories of Julius Caesar, the D-Day landings, and Christopher Columbus to life. Guests of all ages can explore the past through elaborate sets and themed workshops, all accessible without prior booking. Admission is free for children aged 7 and under. It is a perfect cultural outing for those seeking a sensory and dynamic way to experience history at the gates of Paris.
A true immersion into the past
At the gates of Paris, dive into history at the Cité de l'Histoire, where immersive shows and innovative technologies bring the great events of the past back to life.
Starting September 13, 2025, a new experience dedicated to Christopher Columbus will enrich the 360° ellipse. Monumental projection, captivating storytelling, an educational exhibition, and a children's workshop will allow you to relive the era of the Great Discoveries.
Alongside this novelty, (re)discover Caesar, a dive into the heart of ancient Rome, and D-Day, a poignant immersion into the Landings. Each of these shows is accompanied by its own thematic exhibition and a fun workshop for children.
And to extend the adventure, don't miss the great immersive path of the Cité de l'Histoire: a unique journey through 12 centuries of French history, carried by spectacular sets, striking visual and sound effects, and the presence of costumed actors.
3 unique experiences to travel through history
1 - Immersive Path
– The Key to the Centuries –
Be privileged witnesses to the great events and anonymous scenes that shaped the history of France.
From scene to scene, guided by actors present only on Saturdays and Sundays, let yourself be led by the characteristic voice of Franck Ferrand to discover the rich hours of our history.
The rest of the week, audio headsets take over to offer you an equally immersive experience, thanks to sound narratives and atmospheres specifically designed to plunge you into the French epic.
A four-dimensional journey, accessible continuously, for a complete immersion, suitable for all ages.
Also available in English to welcome international visitors.
> 40 min of sensory and visual experience
> 17 rooms retracing different eras of history
> 12 centuries of history
2 - Ellipse 360°
Three immersive shows to discover
In a huge elliptical arena, let yourself be enveloped by 360° video projections that plunge you into the heart of great historical epics. Thanks to video mapping, Amaclio's signature technique, images come to life all around you for a unique experience.
Among the shows offered, discover now The Epic of Caesar, which transports you into the decisive moments of Julius Caesar's life: his military campaigns, his political choices, and his lasting legacy. 3D animations, immersive sounds, and captivating narratives will make you relive the rise and strategies of the famous Roman general. An educational and spectacular experience, designed to amaze both young and old.
You can also attend D-Day, a poignant immersion as close as possible to the Landings.
Starting September 13, 2025, a new immersive 360° projection dedicated to Christopher Columbus will complete this program for a journey to the time of the Great Discoveries.
Projection times vary depending on the shows, visit us on-site to consult them.
> 30 min of 360° show
> a total immersion of 700 m2 of projection surface
3 - Workshops for children
In addition to our immersive animations, discover our workshops specifically designed for young history enthusiasts:
Little Legionary Workshop
In connection with the Caesar ellipse, this workshop allows children to slip into the shoes of a Roman soldier. They discover ancient military art, are introduced to handling the sword and shield, and learn marching techniques in formation.
Sea Knots Workshop
In connection with the Christopher Columbus ellipse, children learn the secrets of sea knots used by 15th-century explorers. A practical and fun activity that invites discovery of the maritime world.
Code Breaking Workshop
In connection with the D-Day ellipse, this workshop unveils the mysteries of codes and secret messages used during the Landings. Children are introduced to military cryptography techniques in a captivating atmosphere.
Count about 15 minutes per workshop.
Included in your Cité de l'Histoire ticket – No prior reservation required.
Our take on this event
The Cité de l'Histoire offers a unique journey through time beneath the Grande Arche at La Défense. The main immersive path, La clef des siècles, stretches across seventeen rooms and twelve centuries, featuring the narration of Franck Ferrand and live actors present on Saturdays and Sundays. This 40-minute sensory experience is available continuously and is also offered in English.
The 360° Ellipse features massive projections across 700 square meters of space. Visitors can explore the life of Julius Caesar, the intense historical re-enactment of D-Day, or, starting September 13, 2025, the voyages of Christopher Columbus. Each 30-minute show operates on a schedule provided on-site.
To round out the visit, 15-minute hands-on workshops are available without the need for reservations: the Little Legionary, Sailor Knots, and Codebreaking. These educational activities are included with your ticket, allowing younger visitors to interact with the history they have just witnessed. The venue is open through December 31, 2027.
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