Hôpital Bretonneau Visiting Hours, History, and Paris Montmartre Guide
Date: 03/07/2025
Introduction
Nestled in Paris’s vibrant 18th arrondissement, Hôpital Bretonneau is a living testament to the city’s evolution in medical care, architectural innovation, and community engagement. Originally established as a pioneering pediatric hospital, it now specializes in geriatric medicine while maintaining its historical and cultural significance in the heart of Montmartre. This comprehensive guide details everything a visitor needs to know—history, architecture, visiting hours, accessibility, cultural events, and nearby attractions—ensuring an informed and enriching experience at this emblematic Parisian institution (FranceArchives; Paris Promeneurs).
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical Overview
- Community and Cultural Engagement
- Visiting Hôpital Bretonneau: Practical Information
- Nearby Attractions
- Practical Tips for Tourists
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
- Official Sources and Further Reading
Historical Overview
Origins and Foundation
Hôpital Bretonneau was inaugurated in 1901, named after the influential physician Pierre Bretonneau, renowned for his work on infectious diseases. The hospital was built to address the growing need for pediatric care following the closure of other Parisian hospitals, marking a new era in institutional medicine (FranceArchives).
Architecture and Archaeology
The site occupies land that was once the Montmartre cemetery, active between 1849 and 1879, with archaeological evidence suggesting thousands of burials beneath the hospital’s foundations (ADLFI). Architect Paul Héneux designed the buildings in a pavilion layout, prioritizing hygiene, ventilation, and natural light—hallmarks of early 20th-century hospital architecture. Later renovations by Denis Valode and Jean Pistre have preserved historical features while introducing modern amenities such as interior gardens and community spaces (Paris Promeneurs).
Medical and Social Impact
Throughout the 20th century, Hôpital Bretonneau was internationally recognized for pediatric otolaryngology, especially under Professor Philippe Narcy, who revolutionized pediatric endoscopy and airway treatments (Université Paris Cité). The hospital played a key role in the emergence of “hospital medicine” in Paris, emphasizing empirical research, thorough patient records, hands-on training, and postmortem studies (The York Historian).
Transformations
In 1988, pediatric services relocated to Hôpital Robert-Debré, and Bretonneau transitioned into a geriatric facility. Today, it provides specialized long-term and palliative care, while preserving its historical and architectural legacy (FranceArchives).
Community and Cultural Engagement
Hôpital Bretonneau is more than a healthcare institution; it is an active community hub. The hospital regularly partners with cultural organizations to host concerts, art events, and festivals, such as performances with the Académie Jaroussky and the Festival Rhizomes (Académie Jaroussky; L’Officiel des spectacles). These initiatives offer patients and the local community enriching cultural experiences, reinforcing the hospital’s ties to Montmartre’s artistic legacy.
Visiting Hôpital Bretonneau: Practical Information
Visiting Hours
- General visiting hours: 08:00 to 18:00.
- Each department may have its own visiting rules—check the AP-HP official website or contact the hospital in advance for specific requirements.
Tickets and Access
- No ticket required to enter the hospital for medical visits or to accompany patients.
- Special events (such as concerts or festivals) may require free registration; details are available on event or hospital websites (L’Officiel des spectacles).
Location and Transportation
- Address: 23 Rue Joseph de Maistre, 75018 Paris
- Metro: Lamarck – Caulaincourt (Line 12), Guy Môquet (Line 13), Place de Clichy (Lines 2 and 13)
- Bus: Lines 21, 31, 54, 68, 80, 95
- Train: Transilien Line L to Saint-Lazare
- Parking: Limited; public transport is recommended (Petit Futé).
Accessibility
- The hospital is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
- For detailed accessibility planning, consult the RATP accessibility guide.
- Assistance for visitors with special needs can be arranged by contacting the hospital in advance.
Visitor Facilities
- Waiting areas, restrooms, a café, and a hair salon are available.
- Public Wi-Fi and vending machines are on site.
- Visitor badge requirements and security checks may apply.
Events and Tours
- No regular guided tours are available, but the hospital occasionally hosts public cultural events and concerts.
- Check listings for events such as the Sarah Laulan and Rémy Poulakis concert (July 2025) (L’Officiel des spectacles).
Nearby Attractions
A visit to Hôpital Bretonneau can be paired with exploration of Montmartre’s iconic sites:
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica: 15-minute walk
- Place du Tertre: Artists’ square
- Musée de Montmartre: Art and history of the neighborhood
- Rue Lepic and Rue des Abbesses: Parisian shops and cafés
- A wide range of accommodation options is available nearby (Destination Well Known).
Practical Tips for Tourists
- Language: Most staff speak French; some administrative staff can assist in English. A translation app is helpful (Lonely Planet).
- Medical needs: Bring health insurance documentation; European EHIC cards are accepted (Why Travel to France).
- Safety: Montmartre is generally safe; practice standard precautions against petty theft (Destination Well Known).
- Payment: Euros and credit/debit cards are accepted.
- Emergency: Dial 112 for emergencies in France.
- Photography: Restricted inside the hospital; permission required for any photography.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I freely tour Hôpital Bretonneau as a tourist?
A: The hospital is a working medical facility—general tours are not offered. Access is limited to patients, visitors, or attendees of scheduled public events.
Q: Are there entrance fees or tickets required?
A: Entry is free; tickets may be required for special cultural events.
Q: What are the hospital’s visiting hours?
A: Generally from 08:00 to 18:00, but check specific department hours in advance.
Q: Is Hôpital Bretonneau accessible to visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with full accessibility features and support available upon request.
Q: How do I reach the hospital by public transport?
A: Via Metro Lines 12 or 13, several bus routes, or Transilien Line L to Saint-Lazare.
Q: Can I attend a concert or cultural event at the hospital?
A: Yes, during scheduled events. Check the hospital or event listing websites for current programs.
Conclusion
Hôpital Bretonneau exemplifies the dynamic intersection of Parisian healthcare heritage, architectural history, and vibrant community life. While its main function remains medical care, its active participation in cultural events and its accessible, thoughtfully renovated environment make it a unique site for visitors to Montmartre. Whether you’re seeking medical care, attending a concert, or simply exploring the area’s history, Hôpital Bretonneau offers an authentic and memorable Parisian experience.
For current visiting hours, event listings, and travel updates, check the official sources below or download the Audiala app for up-to-date information and personalized guides.
Official Sources and Further Reading
- FranceArchives – Hôpital Bretonneau
- ADLFI – Archaeological Studies of Montmartre Cemetery
- Paris Promeneurs – Architectural and Cultural Analysis
- Académie Jaroussky – Cultural Events
- AP-HP – Visiting Information and Services
- Petit Futé – Visitor Guide and Accessibility
- L’Officiel des spectacles – Concerts and Events
- The York Historian – Hospital Medicine in Paris
- Paris Unlocked – Accessibility Guide
- Moovit – Directions to Hôpital Bretonneau
- Doctolib – Hôpital Bretonneau
