Blind soldiers receiving education and rehabilitation at Quinze-Vingts hospital in Paris during World War I, 1916

Quinze Vingts National Eye Hospital

Quinze-Vingts National Eye Hospital Paris: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Visitor Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Paris’s 12th arrondissement, the Quinze-Vingts National Eye Hospital (Hôpital National des Quinze-Vingts) is a singular blend of deep historical roots, striking architecture, and world-leading ophthalmological care. Founded in 1260 by King Louis IX, its evocative name—meaning “fifteen twenties” for 300 beds—reflects the hospital’s medieval origins and enduring mission to serve the visually impaired (Guide-Vue.fr; 15-20.fr). Today, Quinze-Vingts stands as a testament to centuries of progress in social welfare and medical science.

This detailed guide presents everything you need to know before your visit: history, cultural significance, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, nearby attractions, and special events. Whether you are a medical professional, historian, or curious traveler, Quinze-Vingts offers a rewarding experience at the crossroads of Parisian heritage and innovation (myfrenchhospital.com; medium.com).

Blind war veterans receiving education and rehabilitation at Quinze-Vingts Hospital in Paris, 1916

Blind war veterans rehabilitation at Quinze-Vingts Hospital Paris 1916

Blind war veterans receiving education and rehabilitation at Quinze-Vingts Hospital Paris 1916

Blind war veterans undergoing rehabilitation at Quinze-Vingts Hospital in Paris during World War I in 1916

Historical Caserne building of the Quinze-Vingts Hospital in 1809

Quinze-Vingt hospital building in Paris in 1567

Historical pencil drawing of Les Quinze-Vingts hospice on rue de Charenton in Paris, dated 1865

Hospital des Quinze-Vingt on Rue Saint-Honoré near Tuileries, Louvre and Palais-Royal in 1672 map by Jouvin de Rochefort

Detail of Hôtel de Chevreuse on 1672 Jouvin-de-Rochefort map of Paris

19th-century drawing of L'Hôpital des Quinze-Vingts in Paris by François Alexandre Pernot

Henri Chapelle pen drawing of L'Hopital des Quinze Vingts in old Paris

19th century lithograph titled Le Quartier des Quinze Vingt showing blind man guided by child tripping over homeless person with two other blind individuals and dog outside Quinze Vingt door

19th century lithograph showing the exterior of the Quinze Vingt quarter in Paris with blind men and a child in front of the door

Portrait of Marguerite of Provence in medieval attire

Martyrdom of Saints Crispin and Crispinian painting

19th century urban landscape illustration of the 12th arrondissement in Paris, France

Blind World War I veterans receiving rehabilitation training at the Quinze-Vingts hospital in Paris in 1916

Blind soldiers rehabilitation at Quinze-Vingts hospital in Paris during World War I, 1916

Blind soldiers undergoing rehabilitation and education at Hôpital des Quinze-Vingts in Paris during World War I in 1916

Vintage Paris street scene lithograph by Marlet

Historical steel engraving of the interior view and plans of the Hospice des Quinze-Vingts in old Paris, showing detailed architectural layout and chapel plan

Historical steel engraving of the interior view and architectural plans of Hospice des Quinze-Vingts in old Paris

Perspective drawing of the main building of the hospice des Quinze-Vingt by J.B. Métoyen in 1806, ink on paper

Blind man from Quinze-Vingts Hospital leaning on stick holding cup walking left led by boy

Introduction
Historical Background
Visitor Information
Cultural and Research Highlights
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Sources and Official Links

Historical Background

Foundation and Medieval Origins

Quinze-Vingts was established in 1260 by King Louis IX (Saint Louis) to provide shelter and care for 300 blind residents of Paris. The name “Quinze-Vingts” directly references its original capacity—15 times 20 beds—using France’s medieval vigesimal counting system (Guide-Vue.fr). Initially, the hospital was located near the Louvre, reflecting the king’s vision of compassion and social responsibility.

Evolution and Medical Innovation

In 1779, the hospital relocated to its current site at 28, rue de Charenton, occupying the former barracks of the Black Musketeers. Over the centuries, Quinze-Vingts evolved from a charitable sanctuary into a world-renowned ophthalmological institution. By the 19th century, under leaders like Dr. Théodore-Édouard Fieuzal, it became a center for pioneering research and treatment of eye diseases (bvoltaire.fr; medium.com). The hospital’s educational influence is notable: Valentin Haüy founded the Institution for the Young Blind here, and Louis Braille studied at Quinze-Vingts, advancing accessibility and literacy for the visually impaired.

The hospital’s current buildings, dating from the late 18th century, blend classical and utilitarian elements, preserving features such as the historic chapel of Saint Remi and the entrance porch from the Black Musketeers’ barracks (uantwerpen.be). Its urban presence in the 12th arrondissement anchors a neighborhood named in its honor, and its social mission continues to champion dignity, autonomy, and inclusion for people with disabilities.

Visitor Information

Location and Access

Address: 28, rue de Charenton, 75012 Paris, France
District: 12th arrondissement (Quinze-Vingts quarter)

Public Transportation

Metro: Line 8 (Ledru-Rollin station, closest). Bastille (Lines 1, 5, 8) and Gare de Lyon (Lines 1, 14) are also nearby.
Bus: Multiple lines serve the area.
Car: No on-site parking; drop-off point for visitors with reduced mobility. Paid parking nearby at Q-Park Opéra Bastille (1 Avenue Daumesnil).

Opening Hours

General Visiting: As an active hospital, Quinze-Vingts is not open for casual public visits.
Special Events: The hospital opens to the public during European Heritage Days (usually a weekend in September), from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Guide-Vue.fr).
Medical Consultations: By appointment only, via the hospital’s official website or phone (15-20.fr).
Ophthalmology Emergency Department: 24/7 for urgent eye care.

Tickets and Tours

Heritage Days: Admission is free during these special events; no tickets or reservations are needed.
Guided Tours: Available during Heritage Days and occasionally by advance booking. Tours offer insight into the hospital’s history, architecture, and medical work.
General Admission: No entry fee for public areas or patient visits; tours and events may require booking (myfrenchhospital.com).

Accessibility

The hospital is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair access, tactile signage, and trained staff.
Dedicated drop-off point for those with reduced mobility.
Audio guides and tactile exhibits are sometimes available during special events.

Visitor Etiquette

Maintain quiet and respect patient privacy.
Follow all posted signage and staff instructions.
Photography is restricted in medical areas; seek permission elsewhere.
Avoid restricted zones unless part of a supervised tour.

Cultural and Research Highlights

Vision Institute and Medical Innovation

Quinze-Vingts is home to the Vision Institute (Institut de la Vision), inaugurated in 2008, which stands at the forefront of European research into eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, and corneal disorders (uantwerpen.be). The Clinical Investigation Center (CIC) coordinates numerous clinical trials, and the IHU FOReSIGHT Project fosters collaboration between clinicians, researchers, and educators.

Architectural and Artistic Heritage

Chapel of Saint Remi: An 18th-century religious landmark within the hospital.
Historic Entrance Porch: Remnant of the Black Musketeers’ barracks, classified as a historical monument.
Statue of Saint Louis: Central courtyard tribute to the hospital’s founder.

Quinze-Vingts has long played a role in shaping public perceptions of disability, from licensing blind residents as beggars in the past to championing modern rights and inclusion. The hospital’s integration of care, research, and education underpins its reputation as a European leader in ophthalmology and social progress (medium.com).

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Combine Your Visit: Explore the Promenade Plantée (Coulée Verte René-Dumont), Opera Bastille, Place de la Nation, and the lively Bastille district.
Dining: The area features a variety of cafés and restaurants.
Photography: The hospital’s central courtyard and chapel are notable spots—remember to ask for permission.
Accommodations: Nearby hotels, such as Hôtel Marais Bastille, provide convenient lodging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit Quinze-Vingts as a tourist?
A: The hospital is only open to the public during events such as European Heritage Days. Check the official website for dates and details.

Q: Are tickets or reservations required?
A: No tickets are needed for Heritage Days. Some special tours or events may require advance booking.

Q: Is the hospital accessible for disabled visitors?
A: Yes, the facility is fully accessible, with specific provisions for reduced mobility and visually impaired guests.

Q: How do I get there?
A: Use Metro line 8 (Ledru-Rollin), other nearby metro stations (Bastille, Gare de Lyon), or various bus routes.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Only in designated areas and with permission; avoid taking photos in patient care zones.

Q: Can I book a medical consultation as a non-resident?
A: Yes, appointments can be scheduled online or by phone. International visitors are welcome.

Conclusion

Visiting the Quinze-Vingts National Eye Hospital offers a window into Paris’s unique blend of historical compassion, architectural heritage, and medical excellence. Plan your visit around European Heritage Days or special events, and enjoy guided tours that reveal the hospital’s enduring influence on both French society and global ophthalmology.

For more information on tours, events, and travel tips, consult the official hospital website and related resources. Download the Audiala app for guided audio tours across Paris’s medical and historical landmarks.