Biblioteca Richelieu Reopens in Paris After 12-Year Renovation

After 12 years of work and an investment of €261 million, the Richelieu Library in Paris, part of the National Library of France, reopens to the public. Originally the palace of Cardinal Mazarin built in the 17th century, the building became the king's library in 1721. For the upcoming European Heritage Days, the renovated site will open its doors, featuring a research library, a new museum, a temporary exhibition space, the free and public Oval Room, a garden, a bookstore, and a café. The library houses prestigious collections including music and performing arts, oriental and western manuscripts, ancient maps and charts, historical prints and photographs, coins, medals, and other antiquities. Architectural highlights include the Mazarine Gallery, built between 1644 and 1646 by architect François Mansart and adorned with frescoes by Italian artist Giovanni Francesco Romanelli, and the Oval Room where visitors can read from 9,000 freely accessible comics.