Guide anecdote

The Congregation of the Holy Spirit: The Hidden Chapel Designed by the Architect of the Arc de Triomphe

Did you know that tucked away in the heart of the Latin Quarter is a little-known work by the architect of the Arc de Triomphe? The chapel on Rue Lhomond, home to the Congregation of the Holy Spirit, is far more than just a religious building — it features decor reflecting colonial missions.

Did you know? The Eiffel Tower was actually built… in the suburbs of Paris!

Before towering over Paris at 330 meters, the Eiffel Tower was actually conceived in Levallois-Perret, a suburb just outside the capital. An often-overlooked story that sheds light on the behind-the-scenes process of building one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.

This town hall in the Paris region is often hailed as the largest in France... and it's not the one in Paris!

Did you know that France's largest city hall is located in the Île-de-France region? In fact, there are two towns halls that could both claim the title—here's the story!

Did you know? The Jussieu campus in Paris is built on the site of an old wine warehouse.

Did you know? The Jussieu campus, now part of Sorbonne University, is situated on the historic site of the former Paris Wine Warehouse. Discover the story behind this remarkable transformation!

Why do the town halls of Paris and its Île-de-France region often feature a bell tower or small tower on their rooftops?

Why do so many town halls across Paris and Île-de-France feature a bell tower or a small central steeple? Here's the story.

The iconic panoramic screen at the Grand Rex was originally designed for the release of a film by Luc Besson.

Did you know that the Grand Large giant screen at the Grand Rex was originally built for the release of Luc Besson's film The Big Blue? Let us tell you the story behind this iconic piece of Parisian cinema history!

Did you know? This Parisian museum is situated in the heart of a former medieval cloister.

Did you know that one of the most fascinating museums in Paris, dedicated to science and technology, is housed in a former medieval cloister? The Museum of Arts and Crafts combines historic architecture with scientific exhibits to provide a timeless journey through innovation.

Have you ever noticed Ben's impressive installation in Paris?

In Paris, sometimes all it takes is to look up to stumble upon an unexpected work of art. On Place Fréhel in the 20th arrondissement, artist Ben has created a playful, irony-laden installation: a slate hanging high above, two fake construction workers, and a thought-provoking message — “Be wary of words.”

Did you know? An astonishing mosaic of Gutenberg can be found in this metro station on Line 4.

In the Saint-Germain-des-Prés station, away from the stark white corridors, lies a stunning mosaic dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg and the history of printing. An unexpected artistic pause before catching the metro!

Sales: a history dating back to the birth of department stores

Sales are the shopping event that reveals great bargains during two eagerly awaited periods in the year, for the winter and summer seasons. Beyond the commercial aspect, discount sales have a rich history dating back to the early 19th century ...

Did you know? Victor Hugo once lived on an avenue in Paris that already bore his name during his lifetime.

Did you know that Victor Hugo once resided on a Parisian street that was already named after him during his lifetime? This surprising detail highlights the immense esteem in which the writer was held in his era. Let’s take a closer look at a lesser-known slice of Paris's literary history.

New Year’s: Why Have the Champs Elysées Become the Go-To Celebration Spot in Paris?

From the Liberation Parade of 1944 to the victories of the French football team, not to mention the legendary New Year’s Eve celebrations, the Champs‑Élysées has long been the go-to venue for Paris’s most iconic public festivities. This tradition isn’t a new one, but its origins are a fascinating mix of history, happenstance, and that unmistakably French festive spirit. So, why is it that we celebrate on the Champs-Elysées?

The Châtelet neighborhood in Paris derives its name from a fortress that no longer exists today.

Before subways, theaters, and grand boulevards, Châtelet was known as... a medieval fortress! Although the structure itself vanished long ago, the name has remained firmly rooted in the fabric of Paris. Let’s take a closer look at this little-known yet fascinating chapter of history.

Once upon a time, Les Halles was known as the "belly of Paris"... Do you know why?

Long before the shops and urban gardens we see today, Les Halles was a massive food market — a bustling hub where all of Paris came to stock up. It was from this vibrant center that the famous phrase “the belly of Paris” was born.

Did you know? The Bourse de Commerce in Paris used to be a massive grain warehouse.

Before becoming home to the Pinault Collection and contemporary artworks, the Bourse de Commerce was used as a wheat storage facility! Let’s take a look at the remarkable transformation of this historic circular building in the heart of Paris, blending history, architecture, and reinvention.

In Paris, beneath the Radio House, lies a hidden atomic shelter— a remnant of the Cold War era.

Along the banks of the Seine in Paris, the Maison de la Radio, famous for its round shape and broadcast studios, conceals beneath its floors an underground nuclear bunker built during the Cold War—an enduring reminder of the security concerns that shaped that era.

Did you know? In Paris, this high school is located right in the middle of a historic medieval abbey.

In the heart of Paris’s 5th arrondissement, the renowned Lycée Henri IV has since 1804 occupied the historic buildings of the former Sainte-Geneviève Abbey. Today, remnants of medieval structures and designated historical sites still bear witness to its rich heritage.

Did you know? The Grand Palais served as a military hospital during World War I.

During World War I, the Grand Palais in Paris was not used to host art exhibitions but served as a hospital for wounded soldiers. Requisitioned in 1914, this iconic monument was converted into a military hospital until 1919.

Did you know? This Parisian theater is the last remaining remnant of the famous "Boulevard du Crime."

In the heart of Paris’s 3rd arrondissement, a theater still hosts performances while all its neighboring venues have vanished. Today, the Déjazet Theatre stands as the last remaining relic of the legendary Boulevard du Crime, a 19th-century theatrical street known for its melodramas and vibrant nightlife.

Paris: Do you know the story behind the four pillars of the Alexandre III Bridge?

The Pont Alexandre III conceals many secrets beneath its gilded façade. Discover the meaning behind the four majestic allegories that adorn its ends, and delve into the history of the sculptures at the base of the pylons, which serve as true tributes to France’s glorious eras. A masterpiece of the Beaux-Arts style right in the heart of Paris.