At times the queue outside the Invalides memorial complex was 1km (1.6 miles) long despite the rain.

President Emmanuel Macron and his three living predecessors will attend a memorial service for Chirac, who died last week at the age of 86.

He served two terms as president and twice as prime minister.

The queue of well-wishers stretched around the Hôtel des Invalides, where people had been gathering throughout the weekend.

Mr Chirac, a conservative, has been hailed by Mr Macron as a "great Frenchman".

During his first presidential term (1995-2002), he took France into the single European currency. At the start of his second term (2002-2007), he spearheaded international opposition to the US-led invasion of Iraq.

His later years were blighted by corruption scandals, including a conviction related to his time as mayor of Paris and allegations he was given briefcases of cash by African leaders - which he strenuously denied.

Many were seen with umbrellas, undeterred by the wet weather.

Former President Jacques Chirac's coffin lies in state inside the Invalides, draped in France's tricolore flag.

It is to be transferred to the church of Saint Sulpice later on Monday for the funeral service.