It’s Tuesday, which means we’re hanging out in Paris.
Doing what, you may wonder? Well, we’re taking the advice of one of my colleagues and attending a light show in Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb. I’m not the only flight attendant around with great ideas.
Not long ago, one of my flying partners was gushing about a show she attended: AURA INVALIDES.
Les Invalides is a massive complex in Paris where Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte lies entombed. It was built in the 17th century by King Louis XIV to serve as a hospital for military personnel. Today, part of it still does. Other parts serve as a retirement home for veterans, a museum dedicated to the army, and a chapel holding the remains of some of France’s fallen heroes -including Napoleon.
Since I had never previously paid my respects to General Bonaparte, I figured, “Why not see his tomb for the first time washed in technicolor lights?”
The building is impressive with its striking gold dome. It was, after all, built by Louis XIV.
However, despite its architectural beauty, if I’m being honest, the military monuments would have bored me without the show. I’m just not that interested in artillery or the French military’s role in shaping world history. But a laser light show set to music, in a historic and gorgeous building? I’ll buy a 28 euro ticket to see that.
As I took in the show, I couldn’t help but wonder what Napoleon would think of all this. Is he turning over in his grave?
I doubt it. I suspect Napoleon would very much appreciate the attention and the spotlight. Although never in his wildest dreams could he have imagined this in his lifetime (1769-1821).
While it may have been initially a hard sell for the producers, the final product feels like a symphony of sound and light.
Attendees are free to walk around the various chapels and alcoves.
And although the music filled the space, I noticed that people were experiencing the show in either whispers or silence.
What initially may have sounded a bit crazy and perhaps disrespectful was, in fact, quite beautiful. I found the experience peaceful, grand, and reverent.
P.S. During my travels, I’ve noticed that AURA is also available at Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica, as well as at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco, which makes me suspect that it may be happening near you. So, for this experience, a trip to Paris may not be necessary -but of course, it’s always stunning.
