New Delhi, May 15 -- World-famous as the resting place of Napoleon, the gilded dome of the Invalides in Paris draws millions of visitors. But behind the landmark's grand facade lies a lesser-known mission: serving as a home and hospital for wounded soldiers and victims of war for more than 350 years.

Built in the 17th century under King Louis XIV, the National Institution of Invalides houses dozens of residents - among them military veterans, Holocaust survivors and civilian victims of conflicts and attacks who receive long-term, medically supervised care.

The aging facilities are undergoing a major state-funded renovation estimated at 100 million euros ($108 million), with private donors invited to sponsor upgrading individual rooms. ...