Since every year, the European Heritage Days allow access to many of the republic's palaces that are inaccessible the rest of the year, it was an opportunity to go and test one of the most famous of them: the Elysée Palace
It took no less than 4 hours of waiting, whereas we had arrived as early as 7am, to find ourselves in front of the entrance gate and its famous rooster for the ultimate security passage. Two hectares of garden across to meet us in front of the main building. A large lawn, a fountain and simple but rather creative French gardens.
Passing through the silver salon where Napoleon I abdicated, we enter the Paulin dining room, an astonishing witness to Pompidou's modernist improvements. The following rooms are more classical and it is the village hall that will allow us to appreciate the splendours of the republic. All red and gold, with impressive chandeliers, the room is fitted out for receptions of fine crockery. The art of the French table in all its splendour.
Not far away in the Murat lounge is the table where the Council of Ministers sits every Wednesday. A bit old-fashioned with its glass trays, pencils and pencils. We were able to see where Emmanuel Macron or Flore Pélerin was based.
Upstairs, it is the President's office in the golden lounge that holds all our attention. Together with the village hall, it is the most sumptuous and finely decorated room. From there, there is a beautiful view of the park and the Grand Palais. Our exit will be through the famous Elysée peroneum where the heads of state are welcomed, then the courtyard of honour offers itself to us before an exit through the main gate of 55 rue du faubourg Saint-Honoré.
A magnificent visit that allows you to forget the interminable wait and the national guards who are very present throughout the visit and who are happy to answer any questions visitors may have.
More information on the Elysée's website and a complete photo gallery about the visit can be found at www.terimakaci.fr
