The city of Paris has known many names and eras, and has shaped itself over the millennia, giving rise to a veritable diversity of architecture, cultures and monuments. From small city to great capital, Lutetia is a not-to-be-missed discovery for history buffs , where almost every period is represented by preserved remains.
The heart ofFrench history thanks to its central location, the city of Paris has known many secrets, whispered within its walls, that you'll need to discover on your themed walks. Marked by the passage of time, Paris is brimming with little treasures in its various arrondissements that will help you imagine the capital as it was centuries ago.
Originally, the city's inhabitants lived in a handkerchief, and theIle de la Cité was the heart of the city. Protected by enclosures that were extended decade after decade, Parisians experienced everything from great wars and epidemics to the coronations of kings and queens.
Middle Ages, Antiquity, Belle Epoque... choose your favorite century, and off you go!
6 mysterious and esoteric anecdotes about Parisian monuments
Paris is a mysterious capital... Between alchemy, astrology and witchcraft, the city and its monuments hide many esoteric anecdotes, for a magical and historic stroll through three Parisian arrondissements! [Read more]
Discover Paris' most beautiful churches, treasures to visit
Do you know the most beautiful churches in Paris? The hidden, unusual or exceptional churches? In addition to their many works of art and treasures, some have incredible architecture and unique histories. We take you on a journey through history, architecture and spirituality. [Read more]
The oldest restaurants in Paris, historic and legendary tables
Discover the Paris of yesteryear at one of the capital's oldest restaurants, where mythical figures from French history once sat. [Read more]
Saint-Denis Basilica, the necropolis of the Kings of France in Saint-Denis (93), discover its history
How about (re)discovering the Basilique Saint-Denis? Classified as a historical monument, this religious edifice in Saint-Denis (93) is home to the necropolis of the Kings of France, and is a must-see for history buffs and those curious about the region's heritage. We tell you all about it! [Read more]
On the trail of the French Revolution in Paris: monuments linked to this chapter in history
The capital wasn't built in a day, and today boasts a rich heritage woven throughout its history. Let's discover the traces of the French Revolution in the streets of Paris. [Read more]
Where can you see the remains of the Philippe Auguste wall? Discover the ancient walls of Paris
Philippe Auguste's medieval enceinte encircled Paris at the end of the 12th century. Now no longer in existence, its remnants serve as a reminder of the capital's history. So where can you see what's left of this ancient wall that demarcated what were then the boundaries of Paris? [Read more]
Where to see the remains of Lutetia, the Paris of antiquity? Walk in the footsteps of the ancient city
Before Paris, there was Lutetia. During Antiquity, the capital was part of the Roman Empire, and some of its remains are still visible today... if you know where to look! Here's where to discover the ruins of Lutetia in Paris. Let's take a stroll in the footsteps of the ancient city! [Read more]
Visiting Paris: Where can you see the remains of the Bastille prison in Paris?
In Paris, the Place de la Bastille is a reminder of a pivotal moment in the country's history. In the past, a great fortress, the Bastille prison, stood here. Destroyed during the French Revolution of 1789, the remains are now rare. Here's where you can see what's left of it in Paris today. Let's set off on a tour in the footsteps of history! [Read more]
History of Paris: the Cemetery of the Innocents and what remains of it today
Did you know? In the Halles district of Paris, there was once a well-known cemetery in the capital: the Cimetière des Innocents (or Saint Innocents' Cemetery). Discover its fascinating history and the few remaining vestiges. [Read more]
Paris's must-see monuments
Whether you're in Paris for a few days, a few weeks, or a lifetime, there are places you absolutely must see at least once. Discover or rediscover the capital's emblematic monuments. [Read more]
The Tour Jean-sans-Peur, a medieval treasure in Paris
Immerse yourself in medieval history at the Tour Jean-sans-Peur in Paris. The last vestige of the Hôtel des Ducs de Bourgogne Valois, the Tour Jean sans Peur was built in 1409 and offers a glimpse of life in the Middle Ages in a reconstructed residence. It currently houses an exhibition on Health in the Middle Ages, which runs until September 10, 2023 (excluding the month of August). [Read more]
Napoleon in Paris: in the Emperor's footsteps
Napoleon I's reign was short, but intense: in just a few years, the Emperor managed to leave a lasting imprint on France. In Paris, this legacy is clearly visible. Hôtel des Invalides, Arc de Triomphe, Eglise de la Madeleine, rue de Rivoli... Let's take an imperial stroll through the streets of the capital. [Read more]
Monument, café, restaurant, bridge... Discover the oldest places in Paris?
Paris is a veritable open-air museum, and the City of Light makes us want to explore its history. We take you on a tour of the capital's oldest sites! [Read more]
Discover the emblematic sites of the Art Nouveau movement in Paris and the Île-de-France region
Are you particularly fond of Art Nouveau? If so, you're in luck: the capital is brimming with sublime buildings and sites representative of the artistic movement of the early 20th century, all waiting to be discovered on a sunny stroll! [Read more]
What traces of the Paris Commune remain in the streets of the capital?
More than 150 years after the events of the Paris Commune, what traces and remnants of the Paris uprising remain in the streets of the capital? Follow the guide! [Read more]
The oldest and most beautiful swimming pools in Paris, listed as Historic Monuments
In Paris, you can choose to take a dip in a classic municipal swimming pool, or you can opt for a magnificent pool listed as a Monument Historique. The choice is yours! [Read more]
Discovering Paris in the Middle Ages: monuments and relics from medieval times
Fascinated by the Middle Ages? We'll take you on a journey through medieval Paris, discovering the city's historic monuments. From Notre-Dame to the Jean Sans Peur Tower and the Hôtel de Cluny, we'll be revealing just a few of the capital's medieval relics. [Read more]
History: these WWII bunkers hidden under Paris
Are you ready to discover what is hiding beneath your feet? Before the Second World War, many bunkers were built in the depths of Paris, and can still be visited today for special occasions. [Read more]
Did you know? Streets around the Opéra Garnier are very special
Did you know? Streets around the Opéra Garnier have very special names. Like most streets, faubourgs or avenues in Paris, plates surrounding the famous building pay tribute to celebrities, but not just any celebrities… [Read more]
Discovering the Paris of the Belle Époque: the capital's monuments and historic sites
The Paris of the Belle Epoque is a period that fascinates and inspires dreams, notably with the Art Nouveau movement, as spectacular as it was ephemeral. Would you like to discover the vestiges of this key period in the capital's history? We'll show you where you can find them. [Read more]
History of Paris: the Cloître des Billettes, the last medieval cloister in Paris
We take you on a tour of the Cloître des Billettes, the last medieval cloister in Paris, now a showcase for young talent. A little-known Parisian landmark well worth a visit! [Read more]
Where to see the remains of the Tuileries Palace in Paris?
Did you know that? There was a time when the famous Tuileries garden hosted a Palace. It was the Palais des Tuileries. Remains of this royal residence, now disappeared, are now scattered around the world. Here is where to find them in Paris. [Read more]
Discovering the most beautiful fountains in Paris
Follow our guide to the 13 most beautiful fountains in Paris! [Read more]
Bridges in Paris
Let’s discover Paris bridges! Keep reading to know more! [Read more]
So, are you ready to dive into the history of the City of Light?