Heritage

Heritage: What exactly is a "Remarkable Garden"? Where does this prestigious label come from?

If you enjoy strolling through Paris and the Île-de-France region, you've probably already come across the "Remarkable Garden" sign. But what exactly does this label signify? Here's what you need to know.

Did you know? Before the metro, Parisians traveled by horse-drawn omnibus — the ancestor of today’s RATP network.

Before the advent of the metro, Paris was served by horse-drawn omnibuses. From 1828 to 1913, these large horse-drawn carriages crisscrossed the city streets, laying the groundwork for what would eventually become the RATP.

Did you know? Bois de Boulogne was once a royal hunting forest.

Did you know that Bois de Boulogne, the lush green oasis in Paris's 16th arrondissement, was once a vast royal forest where French monarchs came to hunt? Here’s a captivating journey through its millennia-old history.

In the Yvelines, this listed castle is set to see its 17th-century dovecote brought back to life.

In the Yvelines department, the historic Château de Plaisir has secured a fundraising boost of 302,000 euros to restore its 17th-century dovecote and façades. This initiative is part of a youth employment project set to begin in the fall of 2024.

Disneyland Paris: Whatever happened to the River Rogue Keelboats in Frontierland?

The River Rogue Keelboats, a former attraction in Frontierland at Disneyland Paris, have long been removed from the lineup after several years of operation on the Rivers of the Far West. Here’s a look back at the story of this forgotten ride, blending the charm of the American West!

This American cemetery near Paris is the only one in Île-de-France and one of the eleven located across France.

In Suresnes, atop the Mont-Valérien, a cemetery like no other overlooks Paris. Few residents of the Île-de-France region are aware that it is the only one of its kind in the area.

This stunning monument on the Île de la Cité exhibits an asymmetry, the result of a whimsical decision by Haussmann.

Located on the Île de la Cité, at the very heart of Paris's historic judiciary district, the Commercial Court building stands as an often-overlooked masterpiece of the Second Empire era. With its imposing dome and lavish interior, this architectural gem conceals a bold design choice: a deliberately offset dome crafted to accommodate the urban planning visions of Baron Haussmann.

Disneyland Paris: this iconic ride that’s now gone took visitors on a journey through time

At Disneyland Paris, between 1992 and 2004, visitors could step into The Visionarium in the Discoveryland area—a captivating 360° cinema attraction that took them on an immersive time-travel adventure alongside robots Timekeeper and Nine-Eyes. Inspired by Jules Verne’s scientific imagination, this beloved ride—now gone— remains one of the most memorable and nostalgic experiences in the park’s history.

This medieval tower, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Essonne, was once used to measure the speed of light.

Perched atop a 30-meter-high hill, the Montlhéry Tower offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Essonne and the Île-de-France region. This historic medieval relic, officially listed as a Monument Historique, once served as a laboratory for some of the greatest scientists of the 19th century. Whether you're interested in its history, planning a visit, or just taking a leisurely walk, here's everything you need to know.

Municipal Theater of Fontainebleau, one of the most beautiful Italian-style theaters in Île-de-France, opens its doors to visitors for guided tours.

The Fontainebleau Municipal Theatre, one of the most stunning Italian-style theaters in Île-de-France, will open its doors to the public in 2026. Explore this historic gem of Seine-et-Marne through exclusive guided tours.

Rétromobile showcases a legendary train that the public has rarely seen before

The Bugatti railcar, an iconic train from the 1930s and a significant piece of railway heritage, will be on display at the Rétromobile exhibition at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles starting January 28th. As the last remaining unit of its series, this model, crafted by Ettore Bugatti, will be showcased to the public at this renowned event dedicated to vintage vehicles and transportation history.

Candlelit evenings at Vaux-le-Vicomte Castle 2026: a magical stroll culminating in a spectacular fireworks display

The candlelit evenings at Vaux-le-Vicomte Castle offer a truly enchanting experience to enjoy with loved ones. On the agenda: an evening tour illuminated by 2,000 candles, water displays, a romantic stroll through the gardens accompanied by baroque music, and even a spectacular fireworks display! An exceptional event to be savored from May 16 to September 26, 2026.

Did you know? A fire had devastated the City Hall—here's what it looked like before the blaze.

On May 24, 1871, right in the heart of Paris, the City Hall was destroyed by a fire set during the Paris Commune. Before it was rebuilt in the 19th century, the building showcased a Renaissance style inherited from François I, a look that can still be admired today at the Musée Carnavalet through models and original architectural details. Curious about what it looked like? Here's the story!

5 Unique Outings to Discover Heritage in Paris and Île-de-France This Spring 2026

Among secret visits, little-known architectures, and immersive experiences, this spring offers a fresh perspective on the heritage of Île-de-France. Here are five unique ideas to discover the region in a new light, blending history with hidden gems.

Centenary of The Great Gatsby: iconic places to relive the Roaring Twenties in Paris

Sequins, jazz and champagne: a century after the publication of Gatsby the Magnificent, the spirit of the Roaring Twenties lives on in Paris. From cabarets to brasseries, step back into the 1920s!

Time Travel Kiosk: experience the history of Paris in virtual reality on the Champs-Élysées.

The Champs-Élysées is home to the Time Travel Kiosk, a virtual reality installation created by Timescope, where you can relive significant historical events such as the Liberation of Paris or the return of Napoleon I's ashes. See you in March 2026 to travel back in time on the Champs-Élysées.

Contes et Histoires 2025: a fun investigation and storytelling tour at the Villa Savoye in Poissy (78)

For the 2025 edition of Tales and Stories in National Monuments, head to the Villa Savoye in Poissy: this cultural venue offers wonderful family activities during the Christmas holidays! Take part on December 20 and 21, 2025, and January 2 and 4, 2026.

Fabrique de la Flèche: immersive cinema, workshops, and a tour of the construction site at the Basilica of Saint-Denis

By 2029, the Basilica of Saint-Denis will have regained its spire on the north tower, which disappeared centuries ago. But while waiting for the work to be completed, you can visit the site and discover the expertise required for this restoration, starting October 17, 2025, with stone cutting, a forge workshop, and sound and light shows!

Did you know? La Santé Prison is the last prison within the city limits of Paris.

In the 14th arrondissement of Paris, the Santé prison, the last large intramural detention center, tells the story of more than 150 years of prison history. From its origins in the 19th century to its recent renovation, this establishment has seen many famous inmates pass through its doors.