Le saviez vous guide

Time change: why was it introduced?

This weekend, March 29 and 30, 2025, we switch to daylight saving time: one hour more daylight, one hour less sleep. But where does this system come from, and why was it introduced? We explain.

Did you know? The magnolias in the Jardin du Palais Royal are in bloom! What's their story?

It's magnolia season in the gardens of the Palais Royal! Over the past few days, the majestic trees have been decked out in beautiful shades of pink and purple, much to the delight of walkers, tourists and photographers alike. But do you know why there are magnolias in this garden? Back in history...

Did you know? Why does Abbesses station bear this name and what makes it special?

Why does Abbesses station bear this name? Located on line 12 of the Paris metro, Abbesses is the deepest station in the capital, nestling 36 meters underground. But behind its famous Art Nouveau aedicula and frescoed spiral staircase, it hides a history dating back over 900 years, linked to a powerful medieval abbey. Discover the origins of this storied name in the heart of Montmartre.

Did you know? The Bièvre, a Parisian river, still flows beneath the cobblestones of the capital.

Once upon a time, a river flowed through the 5th and 13th arrondissements of Paris for all to see. It became too polluted in the 19th century, and is now buried beneath the cobblestones of the capital, but continues to flow beneath our feet, deeply hidden.

Ramadan 2025: why do the dates change every year?

Ramadan 2025 kicks off this weekend in France, and more precisely this Saturday, March 1, 2025, the day after the Night of Doubt, marking the start of the holy month for Muslims. This month of fasting, prayer and spiritual reflection is one of the five pillars of Islam. However, the dates of Ramadan vary from year to year. Why this annual shift?

Did you know? 3 unusual facts about Sacré-Cœur

The Sacré-Coeur is the jewel of Montmartre, fascinating visitors with its colossal dimensions and distinctive architecture. But how much do you really know about it? We reveal three unusual facts about the Sacré-Coeur.

Did you know? Here are 4 anecdotes about Notre-Dame de Paris

It's one of the most emblematic monuments in Paris! Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, located on the Ile de la Cité, is full of stories and secrets! Here are a few anecdotes about it!

Did you know: which is the oldest museum in Paris?

Paris is home to over a hundred museums. But do you know which is the oldest? Here's the answer...

Did you know? There was a circus on the Champs-Elysées in the 19th century.

Everyone knows Cirque d'Hiver, but did you know that Cirque d'Été existed for a few decades on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, before disappearing forever?

Valentine's Day: why is it celebrated on February 14? History and origins

This February 14 is Lovers' Day, more commonly known as Valentine's Day. But do you know who this Valentine is and why we celebrate this event on February 14? We explain the origins and history of Valentine's Day.

The Bouglione family circus museum, a well-hidden nugget - our photos

Well-hidden museums abound in the capital, but the circus museum is only accessible to the lucky few. Located in the heart of the Cirque d'Hiver and owned by the Bouglione family, it features exceptional costumes and priceless memorabilia.

Did you know? Line 14 existed long before the current version, in the 1930s.

Before line 14 became the modern, fast metro we know today, another metro with the same number existed in the 1930s, before being attached to line 13 forty years later.

Did you know? A swimming pool has been hidden beneath the Cirque d'Hiver ring since the 1930s.

There's no shortage of swimming pools in the capital, but few people have ever been able to swim in the Cirque d'Hiver! Hidden beneath the floor of the ring, it was built in the 1930s for water shows.

Did you know? Why does the Centaur statue have a miniature Statue of Liberty?

César's Centaure, the impressive 5-metre-high sculpture on the Place Michel Debré in Paris's 6ᵉ arrondissement, raises both astonishment and questions. Created between 1983 and 1985 by sculptor César Baldaccini, this half-man, half-horse work pays homage to Pablo Picasso while questioning our relationship with modernity. But what most fascinates the curious is the secret it hides in its breastplate: a miniature reproduction of the Statue of Liberty, an unexpected wink in this sculpture full of symbols.

Did you know? Why does the Arts et Métiers metro station look like a submarine?

One of the most captivating stations in Paris, Arts et Métiers surprises with its unique design. Immerse yourself in the history of this transformed station, an architectural enigma in the heart of Paris.

Did you know? An airport was almost built on the Ile aux Cygnes, in the heart of Paris.

In the 1930s, plans were made to build an airport right in the middle of the capital, in front of the Eiffel Tower! It would have made a great landing spot, but for logistical reasons, the project was quickly abandoned.

Guided tour of Hôtel de la Païva, a mysterious residence with erotic decorations

The Champs-Elysées harbor many secrets, including the home of the Marquise de la Païva, a former courtesan who had an opulent mansion built, also known as the "Louvre of the ass"... Coming for a visit?

Did you know? The Théâtre Municipal de Fontainebleau is one of the most beautiful Italian-style theaters in the Ile-de-France region.

Do you know the Théâtre Municipal de Fontainebleau? This jewel in the Seine-et-Marne region boasts one of the few Italian-style theaters in the Ile-de-France region. We take you on a tour of its treasures and history.

French fries are French, and a Belgian historian is making the claim!

The debate has been raging for many years between the two countries: France and Belgium both claim paternity of the frite. History has decided: French fries are French!

Did you know? The expression "Il y a du monde au balcon" originated at the Opéra Garnier.

This famous French expression, which subtly alludes to a generous bosom put on display, has its roots in 19thᵉ century Paris, and more precisely in the refined ambience of the Opéra Garnier. A look back at a history where seduction and propriety mingled in the salons of high society. We tell you all about it.