Salle Ovale de la BnF Richelieu

★ 4.7 (1,932)Free

The Salle Ovale reopened to the public in 2022 as part of the restored Richelieu site of the Bibliothèque nationale de France, its elegant oval design and glass-domed ceiling making it one of the most beautiful free public spaces in Paris. It functions as both a working reading room and a striking architectural sight, popular with students and visitors alike.

✨ Reasons to go

1The oval reading room reopened in 2022 after a major restoration of the historic Richelieu library site.
2Its glass-domed ceiling and oval design make it free to enter and browse without a library card.
3The space functions simultaneously as an active reading room and a public architectural sight.

💡 Good to know

1It's free to enter and browse, no library card required for a visit
2a great, quiet spot to sit and read or work for a while
3combine with a look at the library's other historic rooms nearby.

⏱️ Typical visit

30 min

🕰️ Best time

morning, lunchtime or afternoon

🚶 Walking intensity

Easy pace

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Address

5 Rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris, France · BourseGoogle Apple

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Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

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Booking

Walk-in

What people say

"A spontaneous date with a friend turned into one of my new favourite places for study. Any person coming or living in Paris should come here at least once just for the feeling. They have free podcasts and listening stations where you can listen to English and French short stories. A wonderful place for all thinkers."

— Nadia K

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