The Hôtel national des Invalides is one of the most important monuments in Paris and it is the burial ground of one of the most iconic historical figures of France: Napoleon. The magnificent complex of buildings of Hôtel national des Invalides was designed during the seventeenth century as a home and hospital for retired French soldiers.In 1674, the first tenants of Les Invalides made these buildings their home. By the end of the century, there were over 4,000 soldiers and marines who had served in the French Armed Forces for over ten years and therefore could retire here. Contrary to what many might believe, these men spent most of their time studying and fixing shoes and army suits, among many other tasks.