Palais Bourbon - home of the National Assembly (aka the lower legislative chamber of the French Parliament)
From the archives: a private visit of the Palais Bourbon, circa 2010.
During my last two years in Paris (2008-2010), I had an amazing job that allowed me to experience things that most French people will never get to experience, such as a private tour of the Palais Bourbon, the seat of the French National Assembly.
As you may know, like most democracies, France’s parliament has two houses. The National Assembly is the lower house; it is also the most important, if not in reality, then certainly in the minds of the French people (mostly because the Senate is not elected by universal suffrage in France).
Five hundred seventy-seven députés (i.e., MPs or representatives) work there and vote on the country's laws.
The building was originally a residence for one of Louis XIV’s daughters. Its architecture changed significantly over time, especially in 1795 when it began to be used by the Assembly, as well as during Napoleon’s reign, when it acquired its current exterior appearance.
I won't tell you much more about its history; you can find lots of information online.
Instead, I’ll show you a few pictures of some of the details you can see there.
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