History - activities

History and traditions: behind the scenes of Christmas window displays in Paris

Christmas window displays in Paris are a veritable part of our heritage! Every year during the festive season, passers-by flock to the windows to admire the decorations and displays designed to enchant young and old alike.

Sissi & Moi by Frauke Finsterwalder with Susanne Wolff and Sandra Hüller: trailer

Sissi & Moi, the new film by Frauke Finsterwalder starring Susanne Wolff and Sandra Hüller, opens in cinemas on October 25, 2023.

Vikings set up camp just outside Paris at Château de la Madeleine

Watch out for Vikings if you're hanging around the Chevreuse Valley this weekend! To close the Rendez-vous de la Madeleine, they're setting up camp at the foot of the château, and awaiting you and your family for a whole host of free activities!

Fête de la Science: discover the origins of this scientific event for the whole family

The Fête de la Science is the not-to-be-missed October event for fans of scientific experiments and new knowledge! Discover the history of this event, born in the capital!

Le Chevalier du Ciel exhibition at the Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération - our photos

Immerse yourself in the captivating life of the Compagnon de la Libération, Édouard Corniglion-Molinier, thanks to the exhibition "Le Chevalier du ciel" at the Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération in Paris from October 2, 2023 to February 4, 2024. Rediscover this aviation hero, outstanding pilot, daring adventurer and key player in the French Resistance.

Les secrets de la princesse de Cadignan: historical romance with Arielle Dombasle and Julie Depardieu

"Les secrets de la Princesse de Cadignan", a film by Arielle Dombasle, features a diabolical seductress (Arielle Dombasle herself), finally finding true, true love. A historical romance to be discovered in cinemas from September 13, 2023.

Did you know? The Gloriette de Buffon is the oldest metal structure in Paris.

In the heart of Paris's 5th arrondissement, the Jardin des Plantes is home to the mysterious and historic Gloriette de Buffon, dating from 1786. Discover a hidden treasure.

Did you know? The Eiffel Tower has seen many parachute jumps, the first dating back to 1912.

Parachuting from the Eiffel Tower is not the best idea, as history has amply demonstrated. The first man to attempt the feat didn't survive, in 1912, and he's far from the only one, given the dangerous nature of the act, which is obviously forbidden.

Il Boemo: Vojtěch Dyk in Petr Václav's film with Elena Radonicich and Barbara Ronchi

Il Boemo features the forgotten composer Josef Myslivecek. Featuring Vojtěch Dyk, the film follows his rise to fame in Venice in 1764 thanks to an opera that would turn his career upside down.

Did you know? France's roads start at ground zero, in front of Notre-Dame de Paris.

Paris' long history gives it a number of advantages, not least that of being the starting point for all the roads in France. It has been the country's capital for centuries, and is home to ground zero, located on the forecourt of Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Did you know? Where does the name Seine come from?

Have you ever wondered about the origins of the Seine's name? Originating from the commune of Sources-Seine in Burgundy, this river is named after a Celtic goddess, Sequana. We tell you all about its history and legend.

Attend the rekindling of the flame at the tomb of the unknown soldier under the Arc de Triomphe

Every evening, under the Arc de Triomphe, you can attend a free, silent ceremony in tribute to the soldiers who died for France. At 6.30pm, the Flamme de la Nation, on the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, is rekindled to burn endlessly.

In the footsteps of Jeanne du Barry, King Louis XV's favorite, from Versailles to Louveciennes

Did you enjoy the film Jeanne du Barry, starring Johnny Depp and Maïwenn? Let us take you on a tour of the places where King Louis XV's favorite courtesan spent her life in the Île-de-France region!

Did you know that a sublime and unusual Parisian façade is hidden in Cité Malesherbes?

Among the most beautiful facades and buildings in Paris is the one designed by the architect Anatole Jal, made for and by the painter Pierre-Jules Jollivet. Nestled in the peaceful and hidden Cité Malesherbes, this marvel with biblical scenes is worth a visit. We tell you its history.

Paris: discovery of the remains of the Lutetia necropolis thanks to the RER B construction site

Incredible! About fifty exceptional Gallo-Roman tombs were discovered during excavations in the 14th arrondissement of Paris, during the construction of the Port-Royal station on the RER B train.

Why do we eat chocolate at Easter?

It's a fact: gourmands and gourmets feast on kilos of chocolates during Easter 2023. But exactly where does this tradition come from?

Did you know that? Discover the history of the Journal du Soir - La France building - rue Montmartre

Immerse yourself in the history of journalism in Paris by visiting the façade of the Journal du Soir - La France, located at 144 rue Montmartre, a witness to a bygone era.

The Renaissance at the Château de Vincennes, the historical event of the Easter weekend

Theatrical performances, court dances, reenactment of a medieval camp, armored battles, culinary demonstrations, so many fun activities organized by the Château de Vincennes, from April 8 to 10, for a 100% historical event!

April Fool's Day: why do we celebrate Joke Day on April 1?

Every April 1st, the more or less successful hoaxes make their return on the occasion of the April Fools' Day. But why do we celebrate this day and why do we make jokes every April 1st? We reveal the history and origins of April Fool's Day.

Did you know? What is the history of the Au Planteur façade in Paris that is being debated?

Discover the Au Planteur facade in Paris, Montorgueil district, classified as a historical monument since 1984. Located at 10-12 rue des Petits-Carreaux in the 2nd district, this facade and colonial fresco is still being debated, we tell you its history.