Palais Bourbon

Built in 1722 as a private mansion for the duchesse de Bourbon, a legitimized daughter of Louis XIV, the Palais Bourbon has served as the meeting place for the Assemblée Nationale (the lower house of the French parliament) since 1798 when it was called the Council of Five Hundred. 
Today, the government building is easily recognizable by the colonnaded facade commissioned by Napoleon to resemble the portico of the Madeleine across the Seine. On display within the Palais Bourbon are cupolas painted by the French Romantic artist Eugene Delacroix, as well as several works by contemporary artists. 
By reservation only, visitors can observe a live session of the National Assembly or participate in guided tours focused on the building’s art, architecture and the workings of the French parliament. 

Practical Info

If you don’t have time to reserve a visit ahead of time, plan to arrive 15 minutes before the start of the tour or session you want to attend in case there are extra spots available.