The Tour Jean-sans-Peur, a medieval treasure in Paris

There are places in Paris steeped in history: the Tour Jean sans Peur is one of them. Entering the Tour Jean-sans-Peur, located in the heart of Paris, you're instantly transported six centuries back in time. Open throughout July, including the 14th, from 1.30 pm to 6 pm, this medieval tower invites visitors to discover the fascinating history of the Dukes of Burgundy and the daily life of the period.

This architectural treasure, the last vestige of the Dukes of Burgundy's Parisian palace, tells the story of centuries gone by. The Tour Jean-sans-Peur, built in 1409, stands proudly, concealing the mysteries of medieval life. When you step inside, you don't just gain access to a monument, but a truly immersive experience.

From its narrow façade to the sumptuous staircase topped by a canopy symbolizing the family tree of John the Fearless, every element of the tower is a treasure to be explored. Discover its astonishing central staircase and the secrets of its construction, from the choice of materials to the engraved details that reveal the ambitions and power of its owners.

The tower was once part of the fortified ramparts of medieval Paris. You'll be amazed to discover how the tower provided strategic access for John the Fearless, enabling him to avoid the crowded streets.

It's also amazing to see how functional and modern the tower was for its time:

• Rooms spread over five levels
• Rooms with fireplaces
• Narrow windows with stained glass
• Latrines with drains
• Heating system
  

This building, narrowly saved from destruction, is now a dynamic museum where you can (re)learn about medieval history. Preserved from destruction over the centuries, the Tower of John the Fearless was rediscovered in 1866 during works in the town. It was soon classified as a historic monument and restored in 1891.

Thanks to a fun trail, young and old alike can immerse themselves in this fascinating period. Children can enjoy a game trail with riddles to decipher, and all visitors can admire custom-made objects and reconstructions of medieval settings.

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Don't miss the temporary exhibitions open until September 10, 2023:

• "Health in the Middle Ages"
  What were the perceptions of the human body during the Middle Ages? On what theoretical bases were the medical methods of the time based? What processes and ingredients were used to concoct medicines? How was a medical consultation conducted? Was anesthesia used? What afflictions were commonly encountered? By exploring six key areas (the foundations of health, medical interventions, collective health, pathologies, practitioners' tools and surgery), this exhibition, enriched by nearly one hundred documents, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the roles of doctor and patient in medieval Western Europe.
  
• "Gamins et Poupardes", on Parisian childhoods in the 19th century
  Considered the era of melancholy, forced labor and venereal affections, the 19th century was not lacking in terms of advances. Extending its "Youth in the Middle Ages" exhibition, the Tour Jean Sans Peur ventures to present that of the century marked by the industrial revolutions, an era teeming with rural exodus and demographic upheaval - from the birth of the "poupard", that noisy, eager infant, to its vagabond elder, the "gamin". Equipped with your oil lantern, follow the walls of the tower and successively illuminate these school archives, lithographs, paintings and photographs; climb tirelessly up the stone spiral staircase until you lose yourself in the meanders of the past...

Practical information :

The five-level tour of the tower, including two temporary exhibitions and access to the garden, takes around 1h30. Reservations are essential for groups, while individuals can visit the tower on a self-guided basis or during a guided tour at 3pm on Sundays (please arrive at 2:30pm to reserve your place).

As for children, they're not to be outdone. For 4-6 year-olds and 7-12 year-olds, a game trail is available for family visits. Allow around 1h with a 6-year-old and 1h30 with a child over 7. What's more, the opportunity to enjoy a snack in the small garden, as well as a reading and play area on the first floor, makes the visit even more enjoyable for the little ones.

In conclusion, the Tour Jean-sans-Peur is a fantastic escape in time, in the heart of medieval Paris, where history, architecture and culture mingle. It's a hidden gem that deserves to be discovered and shared. A wonderful discovery for the whole family.

A small medieval Christmas market sets up this weekend in the Tour Jean Sans Peur
For the first time, the century-old Tour Jean Sans Peur is hosting a Christmas market within its 15th-century walls. A medieval market with talented craftsmen, to be discovered on December 21 and 22, 2024! [Read more]

Please note that it's been over 4 years since our last visit, so the place and experience may have changed.