4th District
HÔTEL DE VILLE
-
Notre-Dame Iles Cité & Saint Louis
-
Saint Merri. Centre Pompidou
-
Saint Gervais. Rue des Rosiers
-
Arsenal. Place des Vosges. Bastille
Flower market
The flower market on Place Louis Lépine is a veritable paradise for lovers of greenery and inveterate romantics! Since 1830, this enchanting spot between Notre-Dame de Paris and the Sainte-Chapelle has been delighting visitors with its colourful stalls and intoxicating scents. And what can we say about its 1900s-era pavilions, real architectural gems that take strollers on a real journey back in time. There are all kinds of flowers, from delicate roses to flamboyant tulips and exotic orchids. It's a veritable festival of the senses, where the eyes feast on the beauty of the flowers and the nose delights in the bewitching scents. So, whether you're a gardening enthusiast or simply looking for a bouquet to charm your loved one, the flower market is the perfect place to marvel at and breathe in nature right in the heart of the capital.
Notre Dame of Paris
On 15 April 2019, a tragic fate befell Notre-Dame de Paris. The flames danced with devastating fury, engulfing the splendour of this venerable cathedral. The towers, once proud and haughty, found themselves battered, their spires collapsing in a fatal crash. The vaults, witnesses to centuries gone by, trembled under the burning breath of the fire. The gargoyles, silent sentinels of the night, wept leaden tears before this infernal spectacle. The bells, once songs of faith, fell silent in painful silence. But in the dark night, the soul of Notre-Dame still burned, illuminated by the hope of resurrection. For such is the destiny of great works, to rise from the ashes to brave time and inspire generations to come.
The exteriors of Notre-Dame de Paris before the fire
Like an improvised air show, the seagulls have taken to the towers of Notre-Dame de Paris to perform their daring acrobatics. Their white wings brush against the gargoyles, their shrill cries echoing high above the cathedral. They seem to play with the winds, letting themselves be carried along by the currents, twirling and fluttering with insolent grace. Their aerial figures defy the limits of Gothic architecture, adding a touch of lightness to the immutable majesty of the building. These messengers from the heavens bring a breath of life and wonder.
Les mouettes acrobates
Le chevet de Notre-Dame de Paris
Les extérieurs de Notre-Dame de Paris
Les mouettes acrobates
Notre Dame de Paris interior
In a celestial symphony, the interiors of Notre-Dame de Paris resounded to the melody of the new bells, whose names evoked the history and spirituality that permeate this thousand-year-old sanctuary. On 2 February 2013, under the majestic vaults, Cardinal André Vingt-Trois presided over the solemn blessing of the eight new bells and the new drone. "Marie", "Gabriel", "Anne-Geneviève", "Denis", "Marcel", "Etienne", "Benoît-Joseph", "Maurice" and "Jean-Marie" were preparing to ring out within the sacred precincts. On 23 March 2013, during the great feast of Palm Sunday, these nine celestial voices joined together for the first time since 1856, offering a harmonious carillon that awakened souls and reminded us of the importance of this place of worship and contemplation.
The treasure room of Notre-Dame de Paris before the fire
In the sacred shadow of Notre-Dame de Paris, the Treasure Room houses priceless treasures for the liturgy of the Catholic Church. Sparkling sacred vessels, precious ornaments and ancient liturgical books rest here, ready to be used at Masses, services and sacraments. Among these treasures, the impressive 268 cameos from the cathedral treasury are a rare and little-known collection. But what attracts the most amazed gazes of the faithful are the relics of the Passion of Christ, brought back by Saint Louis from Jerusalem in 1239. The crown of thorns, a fragment of the Holy Cross and a nail, symbols of the ultimate sacrifice, are venerated with devotion by believers, a reminder of the spiritual power and profound history that envelops Notre-Dame de Paris.
The Gargoyles and Chimeras of Notre-Dame de Paris before the fire
The gargoyles and chimeras of Notre-Dame de Paris, those strange creatures sculpted in stone, were the silent guardians of the cathedral's peaks. Perched boldly on the cornices, they seemed to be frozen in postures that were both grimacing and majestic. Their grotesque faces bore mysterious and captivating expressions, arousing both fascination and astonishment in visitors. They observed the world below with mocking curiosity, as if they knew all the secrets of Paris. The gargoyles, with their gaping mouths, spat rainwater with such intensity that even bad weather seemed to be a joke that they relished. As for the chimeras, they seemed ready to come to life at any moment, as if waiting for a signal to take flight into the night sky. Before the tragic fire, these phantasmagorical creatures populated the heights of Notre-Dame, giving the cathedral a mystical aura and a fairytale presence.
The nativity scene of Notre-Dame de Paris at Christmas
At Christmas, the cot at Notre-Dame de Paris came to life like an enchanted stage. At the heart of the majestic cathedral, it came to life with figures carved from wood, carefully arranged in a picturesque setting. Mary and Joseph, the sweet couple from the sacred story, watched over the infant Jesus in a humble stable. The shepherds, Magi and nativity animals were depicted with touching realism. The scene was bathed in a soft, warm glow, creating an atmosphere of magic and contemplation. Visitors gathered around the cot, amazed by its simple beauty and moved by the profound symbolism it evoked. The cot at Notre-Dame de Paris at Christmas was an invitation to contemplate the story of the divine incarnation, to celebrate the birth of the Saviour and to find peace in the simplicity of divine love
.
Memorial of the Martyrs of the Deportation
The Memorial to the Martyrs of the Deportation is a place of remembrance and contemplation, erected to honour the memory of the millions of men, women and children who perished in the death camps during the Second World War. It is a place of suffering and testimony, where the stone walls and narrow corridors tell of the unspeakable. Each step echoes with the voices of the disappeared, the whispers of lost souls. Inscriptions carved into the stone recall the horror of the Holocaust, inviting visitors to remember, reflect and never forget. At the heart of the memorial, an eternal flame burns, symbolising hope and resistance in the face of oppression. The Memorial to the Martyrs of the Deportation, like a silent cry in the darkness, reminds the world of man's cruelty and the need to preserve human dignity. It is a place of mourning, but also a vibrant reminder of the importance of compassion, solidarity and the fight against injustice.
Square of the Ile de France - 7 quai de l'Archevêché
75,004 Paris
The Commercial Court
Like a majestic guardian in the heart of the Ile de la Cité, the Commercial Court has stood proudly for over a century, a silent witness to the tumult of the business world. Its imposing architecture, the work of talented architect Antoine-Nicolas Bailly, reflects the ambitions of Emperor Napoleon III, who ordered its construction. Since it was founded in 1865, the court has seen a multitude of cases, from the most trivial commercial disputes to the most epic legal battles. In its corridors, lawyers in togas and businessmen in suits clash with verve and tenacity, seeking to defend their interests with the confidence of a poker player. Over the decades, the Commercial Court has become the theatre where the dramas and successes of the business world are played out, bearing the imprint of history and the dynamism of Parisian commerce.
Saint-Louis Island
Le quai d'Orléans et le chevet de Notre-Dame
Partitions de glaces et de musique
Le quai d'Orléans et le chevet de Notre-Dame
Ile Saint-Louis is like a little secret paradise in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the capital. Nestling between the arms of the Seine, this rare gem of Old Paris exudes a tranquillity like no other. It's almost as if you've been transported back in time, back to the 17th century. The sumptuous private mansions that adorn the island are preserved jewels, witnesses to a bygone era when the bourgeoisie flourished in discreet luxury. Strolling through the narrow streets of Ile Saint-Louis is like stepping back in time, immersing yourself in an unruffled, almost frozen bourgeois atmosphere. You find yourself slowing your pace, sniffing the air and wondering if you've stepped into a masterpiece. Time seems to stand still here, offering visitors a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Hotel-Dieu
Hôtel-Dieu, a veritable emblem of Paris's hospital history, evokes a distant past marked by charity and devotion. Founded in 651 by the Bishop of Paris, Saint Landry, it was one of the first hospitals in France and Western Europe. At the time, it stretched from the south bank of the Île de la Cité to the left bank, linked by the Pont au Double. Unfortunately, the original building disappeared, a victim of the growing needs of medicine. However, in 1867, a new page in its history was written when it was rebuilt on the Île de la Cité, providing 22,000 square metres of hospital space. Hôtel-Dieu has always been a refuge for the most destitute, beggars, starving pilgrims, victims of war and abandoned children. In this way, it embodies the values of charity and hospitality that have long been the hallmarks of a religious society. Today, Hôtel-Dieu continues to mark the landscape of Paris, testifying to the importance of caring for the most vulnerable.
Georges Pompidou Center
The Centre Pompidou, that strange cultural liner in the heart of Paris, is a place where modern art is revealed with boldness and extravagance. The brainchild of President Pompidou himself, who was a great lover of art, this multidisciplinary establishment leaves no one indifferent. With its unique architecture by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, it almost looks like a spaceship stranded in the middle of the city. Its external escalators and colourful pipes do not go unnoticed, believe me! Inside, it's a veritable paradise for lovers of contemporary art. The Musée National d'Art Moderne houses art treasures from the 20th and 21st centuries, masterpieces that will turn heads. From Matisse to Warhol, Picasso to Niki de Saint Phalle, all the great figures of art are here, exhibited in chronological order. And to top it all off, the top floor offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Paris, a unique way to admire the beauty of the city while immersing yourself in the artistic effervescence of the Centre Pompidou.
Stravinsky Fountain
Oeuvre conjointe de Jean Tinguely et Niki de Saint Phalle.
Oeuvre conjointe de Jean Tinguely et Niki de Saint Phalle.
Oeuvre conjointe de Jean Tinguely et Niki de Saint Phalle.
The Stravinsky Fountain, a veritable aquatic ballet in the heart of Paris, is a wild and harmonious creation by Jean Tinguely and Niki de Saint Phalle. This artistic duo have succeeded in transforming water into a visual symphony, a choreography of jets and sprays that evoke the exuberant musical work of Igor Stravinsky. It's as if the musical notes were dancing through the air, to the rhythm of the fountain's ingenious mechanisms. The colourful sculptures, with their strange and sometimes naughty shapes, add a playful touch to this artistic ensemble. The Stravinsky Fountain is an invitation to contemplation and reverie, a joyous tribute to the boundless creativity of art and to the music that stirs our souls.
City Hall
statue équestre d'Etienne Marcel
Paris City Hall, a majestic monument that has endured through the ages like an architectural phoenix, is an imposing reflection of the history of the City of Light. Built, destroyed, rebuilt, enlarged and transformed, it bears witness to the whims of fate and the decisions of men and women. Its Renaissance allure, the fruit of the creative impulses of François 1st and Henri IV, transports us to a distant past when feathered costumes and rapiers were de rigueur. But make no mistake, behind this solemn façade lies a veritable paradise for statue-lovers, as the Hôtel de Ville boasts no fewer than 284 illustrious figures, petrified in niches, patiently waiting to tell you about their exploits. And thanks to Haussmann, who decided to raze everything in his path, the square in front of the Hôtel de Ville has become a veritable playground for young and old, reminiscent of the wild festivities of the old Place de Grève.
Inside the Town Hall
The interior of the Hôtel de Ville de Paris is a veritable hidden treasure, where administration and elegance blend harmoniously. When you enter these walls steeped in history, you are greeted by a symphony of murals, created by the master artists of the day. It's as if each brushstroke has been magically orchestrated to tell the story of the city and captivate visitors. The reception rooms, meanwhile, are veritable party palaces, where memorable celebrations have taken place. Imagine dancing to the sound of violins, surrounded by the Parisian elite, while admiring the magnificent frescoes that adorn the walls. Yes, the Hôtel de Ville is much more than just a place of administration, it's a veritable theatre where politics mingle with art, where decisions are taken in an atmosphere worthy of a French comedy. So let yourself be carried away by the magic of this unique place and enjoy every nook and cranny, because behind every door lies a new surprise just waiting to be discovered.
The Saint-Jacques Tower
The Tour Saint-Jacques, a majestic guardian of history, stands proudly in the heart of Paris, like a sentinel of the past. It once stood humbly beside the church of Saint Jacques de la Boucherie, a place of worship that has seen many adventures, as eventful as a play with twists and turns. The Tower watched over this busy crossroads, the starting point for pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela. Its flamboyant Gothic bell tower, carefully erected between 1509 and 1523, bears witness to the skill of the builders of the time. And to crown this fine architecture, the statue in the bell tower represents none other than the eponymous saint, Saint James himself, guardian of the roads and of souls in search of spirituality. But the Revolution, always quick to turn things upside down, put an end to the church, leaving the tower homeless. Fortunately, in 1836, the City of Paris, aware of its timeless charm, acquired it and entrusted it to the care of the architect Théodore Ballu, who restored it to its former splendour in 1853. Today, it stands as a silent witness to centuries gone by, arousing the curiosity of visitors and inviting them to delve into the twists and turns of history.
District of rue des Rosiers
Rue des Rosiers, a delicate thorn in the urban fabric of the Pletzl, vibrates to the rhythm of footsteps and whispers. Located in the heart of the Marais district, it is the jewel in the crown of this Jewish quarter steeped in tradition and history. Since it was built in 1230 along the ramparts of Philippe Auguste, the rue des Rosiers has undergone constant change, but its name has remained true to its origins. In days gone by, rose bushes grew along this cobbled street, adding a touch of sweetness to the lively atmosphere of the district. Today, rue des Rosiers is a treasure trove for gourmet strollers and shopping enthusiasts, offering a myriad of boutiques and restaurants to tantalise the taste buds and satisfy the cravings. As you pass through the entrance to number 10, in the charming Jardin des Rosiers, you can catch a glimpse of the remains of the medieval walls, a reminder of the emotionally-charged past of this emblematic thoroughfare.
Remains of the enclosure of Philippe Auguste
La tour Montgomery semi-cylindrique
La tour Montgomery semi-cylindrique
The semi-cylindrical Montgomery Tower
The so-called Philippe Auguste enclosure, 2,800 meters long on the right bank and 2,600 meters on the left bank, was built between 1190 and 1215 under the reign of Philippe Auguste. A veritable wall 9 meters high, it included a walkway, battlements, fortified gates and 77 semi-cylindrical towers 14 meters high.
Axel's view of the Marais countryside in Paris
As you wander through the narrow streets of the Marais, Axel, this sharp-eyed Parisian greeter, reveals the unsuspected paths of this urban enclave. Like a ferryman, he takes you along unexpected paths, opening the doors to a secret countryside nestled in the heart of Paris. A building courtyard, well-concealed shortcuts, and you find yourself plunged into mysterious gardens, reminiscent of parish priest's country gardens. He talks movingly about the rhythm of shared gardens, the species that flourish there, while the mansions frame these green oases.
A small door opens onto a path, and there you find yourself in an almost deserted park, where a wooden donkey, a happy bearer of children, exchanges a knowing glance with a bewildered pigeon, in search of crumbs that are nowhere to be found.
Further on, inside the parish church of Saint Louis du Marais, behind flickering candles, a half-open door leads you into an alleyway where the traces of time are lost, leaving only an atmosphere tinged with nostalgia.
In the street, a chance meeting with an acquaintance is enough to open the doors of a "palace", a private mansion that you can visit with the enthusiasm of a very old aunt whose visit has been a long time coming.
And what about the Clos des Blancs-Manteaux, revealed after passing through several building gates, a shared garden suddenly emerging, embellished with vines that Axel hastens to clear of invading bindweed, to give the grapes every chance of ripening gently.
This is the countryside of Paris, according to Axel, a countryside enclosed in the meanders of the Marais...
Guided by his passion and knowledge of the Marais, Axel reveals hidden treasures, moments of poetry in the heart of this bustling city. His benevolent gaze opens the doors to a parallel world, in the very heart of Paris, a biosphere reserve is revealed, where nature has regained all its rights with dazzling vigour. It's a veritable sanctuary where the very essence of these places must be preserved with unwavering respect.
Hotel de Sens
The Hôtel de Sens, a proud sentinel of a bygone era, evokes the contours of a rich and eventful history. Built between 1474 and 1519 for the Bishop of Sens, it has stood the test of time, retaining its majestic allure. Within its walls, the echoes of past emotions still resonate. Henri IV, a sovereign of tumultuous passions, once sheltered his famous queen Margot in the labyrinths of this bewitchingly charming building. As a witness to the city's constant changes, the Hôtel de Sens has had a number of different destinies over the years, from being a coach house to a shelter for industrial activity. Acquired by the City of Paris in 1911, it was meticulously restored by C. Halley between 1934 and 1960. Today, the hotel houses the Forney municipal library, a haven of learning dedicated to the fine, decorative and graphic arts, crafts and techniques. Within its walls, filled with history, pages turn and passions are aroused, breathing a timeless breath into this remarkable building.
Saint-Paul Saint-Louis Church
The Saint-Paul Saint-Louis church, an architectural gem nestling in the heart of the Marais district, is a veritable melting pot of styles. Like a conductor at the baton, Jesuit architects Étienne Martellange and François Derand concocted a delicious blend of French elegance, Flemish audacity and Italian grandeur. Classical French lines flirt with flamboyant Baroque ornamentation, while Italian influences are evident in the delicate details and graceful curves. This architectural fusion is a feast for the eyes, a visual symphony that testifies to the richness and diversity of sacred art.
Place du Marché Sainte-Catherine
On the charming Place du Marché Sainte-Catherine, vestiges of the past mingle mischievously with the dynamism of daily life. Once upon a time, this was the realm of the royal priory of Sainte-Catherine du Val des écoliers, which reigned supreme. But then, under the reign of Louis XV, an idea came along that was as far-fetched as it was daring: to move the noisy market from the rue Saint-Antoine to free up the flow of carriages and passers-by. Traffic is no laughing matter, especially when it comes to the main entrances to Paris! And so, in 1762, when the Jesuits were expelled from France by the king, it was decided to give the monks of the Sainte-Catherine priory a new home in the Jesuits' professed house next to the church of Saint-Louis. An exchange of courtesies between saints and kings, where history is played out with a touch of irony. Today, the square is a must for strollers in search of treasures and gourmets looking for a savoury break.
The church of Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais
L'église Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais
L'église Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais
The church of Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais, nestling in the charming rue des Barres, is full of surprises. If you venture behind its chevet, you'll discover a little square Couperin where the street opens out into a welcoming little square. The pedestal tables are there, inviting you to take a seat and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The church is no longer just an ordinary parish! It has been given over to the monastic liturgies of the Jerusalem Fraternities, who have even had the brilliant idea of opening a shop there! So you can combine your spiritual quest with some religious shopping.
Rue François Miron - 14th century houses
Rue François Miron and its little secrets from the past! You may not believe it, but the picturesque half-timbering that adorns the buildings at numbers 11 and 13 is not original. Yes, they were added during a rather exuberant restoration in the late 1960s. It looks as if these houses have been given a 'throwback to the Middle Ages' makeover.
But let's talk a little about the history of this street. As you can see, it hasn't always had this prestigious name. It wasn't until 1865 that it was named after King Henry IV's Provost of Merchants. Before that, it was part of rue Saint-Antoine, a much older neighbour. But times change, and with the construction of the rue de Rivoli in the mid-19th century, the urban fabric of the Marais district was turned upside down. We can't say that this street has had a very stable identity, but at least it has been able to adapt over the years.
And now, let's talk about signs. In the Middle Ages, the streets weren't numbered, so you could find your way around by looking at the signs on the houses. Well, guess what? These two houses on rue François Miron have kept their signs in their names! The first, on the left, is simply known as the "maison à l'enseigne au faucheur". And the second, with its charming gable, is known as the "maison à l'enseigne au mouton". Yes, the sheep was a real star of medieval signs. There were all kinds: the silver sheep, the white sheep, the crowned sheep, the black sheep, the golden sheep, not forgetting the famous "sheep's foot"!
Place des Vosges
The Place des Vosges is one of the oldest in Paris, and also one of the most beautiful. Place des Vosges was originally known as Place Royale. The square was renamed after the French Revolution and became Place des Vosges in homage to this region of the north-east, on the border with Germany and Luxembourg, which was the first to pay the taxes levied by the new French revolutionary government.
Hotel Amelot de Bisseuil
The Hôtel Amelot de Bisseuil, as majestic as a peacock decked out in its finest feathers, towers confidently in the heart of Paris. Like an aristocrat in a gala dress, its sculpted facades are a source of pride. Inside, it's a veritable festival of gilding and luxurious decor, almost making you believe that the furniture itself is wearing bow ties. It's a delight to get lost in the maze of this private mansion, wondering whether the ghosts of yesteryear are playing hide-and-seek or whether it's just the wind whirling the velvet curtains. A true haven of grandeur and mystery, where you feel both small among the giants of the past and delighted to have the chance to rub shoulders with them, even if it's just for a visit.
Hotel de Sully
Like an old aristocrat with old-fashioned charm, the Hôtel de Sully stands elegantly in the heart of the Marais district. With its façade that looks as if it has stepped straight out of a master painting, it draws curious glances like a dandy at a masked ball. Its gardens, like parterres of well-kept secrets, are an invitation to stroll and daydream. You could almost imagine the garden statues whispering gossip to passers-by, while the fountains, a little teasing, douse the curious who are a little too intrusive. If the walls could talk, there's no doubt they'd have some tasty anecdotes to tell, from plots and amorous passions to social evenings. A visit to the Hôtel de Sully is like immersing yourself in history with a touch of mystery, as if you were invited to a masked ball where the masks are the well-kept secrets of this enchanting place.
Hotel de Rohan
The Hôtel de Rohan, a silent witness to the intrigues of the court, was also the scene of one of the most incredible affairs in history: the affair involving Queen Marie-Antoinette's necklace. In its sumptuous salons, where the nobles strutted their stuff with arrogance, the threads of a scandal that shook the monarchy were woven. The sumptuous receptions, glittering jewels and fashionable dresses concealed inordinate ambitions and dubious schemes. Ah, how ironic to think that behind those imposing walls lurked the coveted necklace, symbol of the vices and vanities of the age. Hypocritical laughter and perfidious smiles mingled with whispers of plots and betrayals, in a frantic dance that eventually revealed the glittering underbelly of the court.
Hotel de Fieubet
The Hôtel de Fieubet, an 18th-century architectural gem, embodies the elegance and refinement of the period. Built for the Fieubet family, a dynasty of wealthy merchants, this private mansion bears witness to their power and taste for art. Over the centuries, it has played host to many prestigious figures, from the nobility to eminent artists. Its imposing façade, adorned with delicate sculptures, reveals the grandeur of its past. The sumptuously decorated salons, hand-painted ceilings and precious collections of objets d'art transport visitors back to a bygone era. Today, the Hôtel de Fieubet, a listed historic monument, opens its doors to lovers of history and architecture, offering a captivating journey through the splendour of a bygone era.
Hotel d'Angouleme Lamoignon
The Hôtel d'Angoulême Lamoignon, a veritable jewel of Parisian heritage, is steeped in history. Built in the 16th century, this private mansion has stood the test of time, preserving its charm and elegance. It owes its name to its famous owner, François Lamoignon, President of the Paris Parliament in the 17th century. Its remarkable architecture, with facades adorned with delicate sculptures and magnificent courtyards, bears witness to the skills of the craftsmen of the time. Today, the Hôtel d'Angoulême Lamoignon houses the Bibliothèque Historique de la Ville de Paris, where history and culture buffs can delve into a treasure trove of archives and precious documents. A visit to this private mansion is a plunge into the history of the capital, a unique opportunity to discover the secrets and wonders of a place charged with emotion.
The BHV(City Hall Bazaar)
The BHV, also known as the Bazar de l'Hôtel de Ville, is a veritable Parisian institution. For over a century, it has been a haunt for bargain hunters, DIY enthusiasts and hidden treasure seekers. Its history dates back to 1856, when Xavier Ruel founded the first shop in the heart of the capital. Since then, BHV has gone from strength to strength, attracting crowds with its wide range of products, from household goods to clothes and unusual gadgets. It is said that even the most reluctant Parisians have succumbed to the charms of the BHV at least once in their lives, losing themselves with delight in its maze of shelves and tempting promotions. Whether you're looking for a light bulb, a can of paint or a sequined dress, the BHV is there to satisfy all your needs, with a smile and a good dose of humour. So don't hesitate to venture into this veritable temple of Parisian consumerism, where finds and unlikely encounters await you at every corner.