Created in 1984 by the French Ministry of Culture, the European Heritage Days are an annual event celebrated in some 50 European countries. The aim? To raise public awareness of the richness and diversity of our cultural heritage, by opening the doors of monuments, museums and other historic sites that are often inaccessible to the public during the rest of the year. Traditionally held on the third weekend of September, these days are an opportunity for citizens to discover or rediscover the treasures of their heritage through guided tours, conferences, exhibitions and other events.
In Paris, the European Heritage Days are a special opportunity to explore the city from a whole new angle. Prestigious institutions such as the Palais de l'Élysée, the Senate and the Banque de France open their doors for special events. Numerous museums, monuments and unusual sites also offer free or reduced-rate tours, enabling the public to discover the capital's history and architecture.
The Institut national des Jeunes aveugles (INJA) is a historic institution founded in 1784 by Valentin Haüy, a pioneer in education for the blind. The institute was the first in the world to offer specialized education for visually impaired young people, with innovative methods that gave these children access to reading, writing and learning in general. Located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, the INJA has occupied an emblematic building since 1843, where it continues to provide its students with an adapted education. The history of this institute bears witness to a major advance in the inclusion of disabled people in society, and its heritage is a living testimony to developments in the field of special education in France.
To mark the European Heritage Days 2024, apiDV (Accompagner, Promouvoir, Intégrer les Déficients Visuels), Valentin Haüy, Auxiliaires des Aveugles and INJA-Louis Braille welcome you to 56 boulevard des Invalides, Paris 7th arrondissement, on Saturday September 21, from 10am to 5pm.
Come and discover the historical heritage of the visually impaired in the area where the main facilities for the visually impaired and blind are located. You'll be able to admire a photo exhibition of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, take a refreshing dip in the Helen Keller sensory garden... Tours start at INJA-Louis Braille: 10:30, 11:30, 14:30 and 15:30.
Throughout the day, you'll also have the opportunity to attend concerts (jazz, variety...). We look forward to seeing you there.
Dates and Opening Time
On September 21, 2024
Location
National Institute for Young Blind People
56 Boulevard des Invalides
75007 Paris 7
Access
Metro 10 or 13 Duroc