Paris may be one of the world's most beautiful cities, but it also has a more mystical charm, nurtured by the many legends that the City of Light has spawned. Nicknamed the capital of lovers, it too has had its share of romantic tales that have spanned the ages. In fact, did you know that Paris has its own Romeo and Juliet? It's time to tell you thestory of Heloise and Abelard, the star-crossed lovers of medieval Paris.
To do this, we have to go back in time to the early 12th century, during the reign of Louis VI. Pierre Abélard, an intellectual with a reputation for brilliance but lacking in practicality, teaches theology and philosophy at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Canon Fulbert decided to entrust him with the education of his niece Heloise. Pupil and teacher fall in love: he is 36, she is 17.
Abelard and his pupil Heloise by Edmund Blair Leighton - 1882
Heloise became pregnant and the couple retired to Brittany, where she gave birth to their son Astrolabe and they married in secret. But Héloïse's uncle, Canon Fulbert, denounced their union and had Abélard emasculated. Héloïse entered a convent, while Abélard became a monk. They remained faithful to each other, however, and continued their relationship through love letters, but never saw each other again in their lifetimes.
On her death, Héloïse asked to be buried alongsideAbélard, who had died twenty years earlier. Legend has it that when Héloïse's body was laid in her husband's tomb,Abélard 's arms opened to embrace her.
Today, Héloïse and Abélard are the oldest residents of the Père Lachaise cemetery. The transfer of their remains helped to make the cemetery popular with Parisians, and their tomb, located in the 7th division, is listed as a historic monument. Curious onlookers and enthusiasts still come to pay homage to the couple who symbolize eternal love.
Did you know? 3 unusual anecdotes about Père Lachaise cemetery
Père Lachaise is one of the world's most famous cemeteries. Its famous tombs, its mysteries and its fascinating history. But how much do you really know about it? We reveal 3 unusual anecdotes about the Père Lachaise cemetery. [Read more]
Location
Père-Lachaise Cemetery
Cimetière du Père-Lachaise
75020 Paris 20
Prices
Free
Did you know? 3 unusual anecdotes about Père Lachaise cemetery
