Aux grands hommes

Rising proudly on the city skyline, the Panthéon is one of the great Parisian landmarks. But how many actually know its story, from its creation as a church to its modern-day role as a mausoleum for the nation's grands hommes? And besides, who are these "great men"? How many, all told? What were the events and the ideologies that decided their inclusion, or even their expulsion? Generals and marshals, heroes of the Revolution, politicians and dignitaries, thinkers and artists - each life speaks volumes about its times - and ours.

The history of the Panthéon mirrors the history of France. From Louis XV to the present day, this biographical guide follows the key events and acquaints or reacquaints readers with the eminent servants of State, the military heroes and political leaders and the literary and scientifie figures who are interred or celebrated here, and who now cohabit in the eternity of memory.