Discover the Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau For the European Heritage Days

On Saturday, September 20th and Sunday, September 21st, 2025, L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts is participating for the first time in the European Heritage Days by opening the doors of the Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau in Paris.

 

For its first participation in the European Heritage Days and in connection with the theme of the 2025 edition dedicated to architectural heritage, L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts is opening the doors of the Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau and inviting you to discover the world of jewelry, with an exclusive program.

Guided tours

Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau
© L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, photo: Benjamin Chelly

Guided tours of the Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau and the exhibition "Recreating Gesture"

September 20th and 21st, 2025
From 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Built in 1778 and designated a historical monument, this private mansion stands as one of the oldest preserved residences in the Grands Boulevards district of Paris. The tour also features the exhibition "Recreating Gesture: The Replica of the Celtic Torque of Montans".

In French
Free upon reservation
Tour duration: 1h10 (departure every 20 minutes; last visit at 5:20 p.m.)

Guided tour for kids, Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau
© L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, photo: Dylan Dubois

Guided tours for children


September 20th and 21st, 2025 
At 4 p.m. and 4:40 p.m.

This tour provides children with the opportunity to learn about the creation of jewelry, observing the techniques and tools used by skilled craftspeople. They will also explore the history of the Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau and its first resident, the Austrian ambassador to the court of the King of France.

In French
Free upon reservation 
Tour duration: 50 min
Workshop recommended for children from 7 years old

Talks

L’Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau, un écrin pour l’histoire, Léonard Pouy, Parigramme / L’École des Arts Joailliers

Meet Léonard Pouy, author of the book "The Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau: a setting for history"

September 20th and 21st, 2025 
From 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join Léonard Pouy as you step through the doors of the Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau and uncover the secrets of this Parisian architectural gem, a privileged witness to the grand diplomatic events of the 18th century.

In French
Free upon reservation

Marie-Antoinette et le comte de Mercy-Argenteau

Portrait of Florimond Claude, Count of Mercy-Argenteau (1727-1794), Anonymous, circa 1757
Portrait of Marie Antoinette, attributed to Martin van Meytens, circa 1787-1788, Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna, Austria

Conversation "Mercy-Argenteau, in the shadow of Marie-Antoinette"

September 20th and 21st, 2025 
From 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Count de Mercy-Argenteau, a skillful diplomat and discreet advisor to the young Queen Marie-Antoinette, played a pivotal role at the Court of Versailles in the 18th century. His collected letters reveal his involvement in the Court's most scandalous affairs, including the infamous Queen's necklace affair!

In French
Free upon reservation

Practical information

Saturday, September 20th and Sunday, September 21st, 2025
From 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
All visits and activities offered during these two days are free, upon registration.
Booking to come (subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed)

Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau
© L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, photo: Benjamin Chelly
Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau
© L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, photo: Benjamin Chelly
Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau
© L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, photo: Benjamin Chelly
Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau
© L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, photo: Benjamin Chelly
Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau
© L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, photo: Benjamin Chelly
Exhibition "Recreating Gesture: the Replica of the Celtic Torque of Montans"
© L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, photo: Dylan Dubois
Exhibition "Recreating Gesture: the Replica of the Celtic Torque of Montans"
© L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, photo: Dylan Dubois