Musee de la prefecture de Police

The Musée de la Préfecture de Police is a niche museum located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, dedicated to the history of law enforcement in the city. Housed within the police headquarters, it offers a fascinating glimpse into crime and policing from the Ancien Régime to the present. The museum's collection includes uniforms, weapons, documents, and forensic tools, as well as exhibits on famous criminal cases such as the murder of Marie-Antoinette's confidante and the exploits of the criminal Vidocq. Visitors can see original letters from Napoleon, guillotine blades, and artifacts from the Resistance during World War II. The museum is distinctive for its intimate scale and the rarity of its subject matter, providing a unique perspective on Parisian history. It's a must-visit for true crime enthusiasts and history buffs, offering a quiet, uncrowded experience away from the tourist throngs.

Don't miss

• Exhibits on famous Parisian crimes and criminals
• Historical police uniforms and equipment
• Original documents and letters from historical figures
• Forensic science displays, including early fingerprinting
• World War II Resistance artifacts

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Musee de la prefecture de Police

Cheapest way inFree Perfume Museum & Opera District Tour in English5★ · 21 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$3 per personSee dates →Most bookedLouvre Museum Masterpieces Guided Tour with Access4.5★ · 12,899 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$74 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleLouvre Museum Premium Guided Tour 6 GUESTS MAX Entry Included5★ · 6,864 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$73 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Bring ID as the museum is inside a police station; security check required.
• Photography is allowed without flash.
• Check opening hours online; the museum may close for lunch or special events.
• Exhibits are primarily in French; English descriptions are limited.

A bit of history

Founded in 1909, the museum was established to preserve the history of the Paris police, which dates back to 1667 under Louis XIV. It showcases the evolution of policing from the watchmen of medieval times to modern forensic science.