A dancer, singer and anti-racist activist, the Franco-American Freda Josephine McDonald better known as Josephine Baker, will have her remains transferred to the Pantheon on 30th November, and guests at the Hotel les Dames du Panthéon and Hotel des Grands Hommes will have a special view of the proceedings from their rooms.

You might know Josephine Baker as a showgirl and cabaret star, but she was also a militant and hero of the French Resistance during the war. She dedicated the latter part of her life to helping save France.

France made me what I am. I’m ready to give my life for it. Do with me as you wish – Josephine Baker

For over a century, the Pantheon has been used as the prestigious resting place for politicians, scientists and artists so their memory can be honoured. Most are men (there are only five women), but the decision was recently taken to allow Josephine Baker to become the sixth female occupant, and the first woman of colour.

Née Américaine et ayant choisi la France, par ses engagements et combats, Joséphine Baker a porté haut la devise de la République française. Le 30 novembre 2021, elle entrera au Panthéon.

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) August 23, 2021

The preparations for this great event on 30th November have already started…

We are sure that you now know that the Hotel les Dames du Pantheon and Hotel des Grands Hommes are both facing the Pantheon where the ceremony will be held.

If you would like to have a room with a view in one of the two hotels, now is the time to take advantage of the winter offer on our websites, with special reductions if you book directly with us 😋

Click here to check out the offers at the Hotel les Dames du Panthéon, and here for the Hotel des Grands Hommes.

One more thing – although the Pantheon is now closed until 3rd December in order to prepare for the event, entrance will be free on 4th & 5th December. Time to go down and see Joséphine 🙂

⚠️ Afin de préparer la cérémonie d'entrée au #Panthéon de Joséphine Baker, le monument sera fermé du 22 novembre au 3 décembre inclus.
Il sera ouvert gratuitement les 4 et 5 décembre pour que vous puissiez venir lui rendre hommage !https://t.co/zqQN7IoyJk pic.twitter.com/NORX3p9N1v

— le CMN (@leCMN) November 22, 2021

Hotel des Grands Hommes

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Hotel les Dames du Pantheon

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