Histoire et patrimoine - activities

The Maison Zola, the Dreyfus Museum in Médan, Yvelines

In the heart of the Yvelines region, the Musée Dreyfus, in the grounds of the Maison d'Émile Zola, stands as a place steeped in literary and judicial history. Located in Médan, just an hour's drive from Paris, this historic house and museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the life and work of Émile Zola, as well as the Dreyfus Affair, two major elements of late 19th-century French culture.

Château de la Madeleine in Chevreuse, a Medieval Treasure in Ile-de-France

Available all year round, the Château de la Madeleine in Chevreuse, a medieval jewel in the Ile-de-France region, invites you to immerse yourself in history.

Moret-sur-Loing : Medieval and Impressionist city among the most beautiful detours in France

Discover Moret-sur-Loing, this medieval and impressionist city among the Most Beautiful Detours of France, only one hour from Paris. Visit this charming town, famous for its Sucre d'Orge, its royal city and the landscapes of Alfred Sisley.

JEMA 2024 in Paris: the Opéra Comique introduces us to the art of live performance

The Journées des Métiers d'art is an opportunity to discover a wide range of fascinating professions, as well as to visit some magical places! This April 6, 2024, come to the Opéra Comique to discover the performing arts.

Paris, Coeur de Lumières: take part in the future immersive show at Saint-Sulpice church!

Are you ready for an unforgettable experience? The team behind the immersive show "Paris, Coeur de Lumières: le roman de Saint-Sulpice" is still looking for 150 volunteers to take part in a great adventure. Extras, costume designers, receptionists, a casting call is scheduled for April 2024 to take part in the big show in October 2024 in the church of Saint-Sulpice. Registration now open!

Oscars 2024: by the way, why is the film awards ceremony called that?

It's one of the most important award ceremonies in the world of cinema: the Oscars fascinate stars and lovers of the 7th art alike. But where does the name come from?

Grandma's Day, since when has there been a grandma's day? date and origin

When is Grandmother's Day and where does it come from? Did you know that this celebration, contrary to popular belief, has its origins in a commercial initiative rather than in historical or religious tradition? We tell you all about it...

Did you know? This is the oldest clock in Paris, discover its history

Do you know the oldest public clock in Paris, still in operation? Fixed to the walls of the Conciergerie in the heart of the Ïle de la Cité, this clock has been telling the time since 1371. Commissioned by Charles V, the clock marks the king's time.

February 29: why does this special date exist in our calendar?

The year 2024 is a leap year, meaning that the month of February has 29 days instead of 28. Where does this particularity of the calendar come from?

History and tradition: why is the red rose the symbol of love?

Lovers all over the world are celebrating Valentine's Day this February 14. Many will give themselves a bouquet of red roses to mark the day. But why is this flower the symbol of love?

Did you know? The statue of a famous Roman she-wolf is hidden in a Parisian square.

In front of the Sorbonne lies a sculpture with a strong symbolic link between Paris and Rome: a she-wolf. A replica of the Capitoline She-Wolf, it was donated to the French capital as part of the twinning agreement between the two cities, a reminder of the legend of Remus and Romulus.

Lent and Ash Wednesday: dates 2024, meaning and history of these traditions

Lent kicks off on February 14, 2024 with Ash Wednesday. What do these celebrations mean, and what is the origin of these traditions so important to Christians? We tell you all about it.

Did you know? How many replicas of the Statue of Liberty are there in Paris?

Although the best-known Statue of Liberty is in the USA, there are several reproductions around the world, including in the French capital. So where are these statues located in Paris?

Did you know? This Art Deco theater is the only one in Paris with blue decorations!

All Parisian theaters are dressed in red... except one! The Art Deco-style Théâtre Daunou, located next to the Opéra de Paris, is the only one in the capital to be decorated in blue. Find out why!

2024, Year of Hector Guimard: free lectures and events on Art Nouveau in Paris

This year, the city of Paris has decided to highlight the figure of Hector Guimard, a key figure in Art Nouveau in France and in the capital. From January 31, 2024, conferences and free events are planned to celebrate him.

Did you know? Why is the Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre metro so original?

Wondering why the Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre metro exit on Place Colette is so unusual? We tell you the story of the Kiosque des Noctambules, an original work of art designed by Jean-Michel Othoniel.

Did you know? Do you know the origins of the Bistro Parisien?

"Bistro" in Paris: an emblematic term for popular bars, but where does it come from? Between myths and realities, discover the story behind this famous word, which may have come down to us from the Cossacks.

Did you know? Where is the largest caryatid in Paris and what is its history?

Discover the tallest caryatid in Paris, located on rue Turbigo, an intriguing and mysterious 3-storey structure that has been on display since 1859.

Did you know? Why does the McD's in Saint-Lazare have the façade of an Alsatian house?

Does the unusual facade of the McDonald's at 119 rue Saint-Lazare in Paris appeal to you? Discover the history of this Alsatian house that contrasts with the capital's Haussmann-style buildings.

History of Paris Carnival: a medieval tradition still celebrated in the capital

Colors, music, costumes, food: the Carnaval de Paris is a big party, taking place this year on February 11, 2024. By the way, do you know the history of Carnival?