History

Did you know? Sainte-Geneviève, patron saint of Paris, saved the capital from invasion by the Huns!

An emblematic but often overlooked figure of the capital, Sainte Geneviève saved Lutetia from Attila's invasion in the 5th century. A true heroine whose imprint still marks the heights of Paris's 5th arrondissement!

Journées du Patrimoine: history, dates and 2025 theme of this not-to-be-missed cultural event

The European Heritage Days return on Saturday September 20 and Sunday September 21, 2025, with a new theme. Although the cultural event is celebrating its 42nd edition this year, few people actually know the origins of this essential back-to-school event. We'd like to tell you about the history of the Journées du Patrimoine, created in 1984 by the French Ministry of Culture.

Why is Ascension Day a public holiday in France? History and origins

Ascension Day is one of the most important religious holidays for Christians. But do you know why this day is a public holiday in France? We tell you all about the origins and history of Ascension Day.

Did you know? 5 unusual anecdotes about the Auberge Ravoux, Van Gogh's home in Auvers-sur-Oise

The Auberge Ravoux, a landmark in Auvers-sur-Oise, is best known for having been home to Vincent van Gogh's last days. But behind this reputation lie many surprising stories. Here are five more or less well-known anecdotes about this inn like no other!

Salon du Roman Historique de Levallois 2025: meetings, debates and musical readings

Once again this year, the Levallois Historical Novel Fair returns to the Parc de la Planchette on July 5 and 6, 2025, to tell the story of history to children and adults alike, with book signings, shows and literary round tables.

Nuit des Musées 2025: a free nocturne at the Hôtel de Ville de Boulogne-Billancourt (92)

On the occasion of the Nuit des Musées, the Hôtel de Ville de Boulogne-Billancourt (92) invites you to an exceptional nocturnal tour of its Art Deco architecture and history, on Saturday May 17, 2025.

Cross the centuries at the Louvre: we tested the virtual reality experience

Step back in time at the foot of the Louvre thanks to a unique virtual reality tour. An immersive journey, combining historical reconstructions, guided tours and sensory experiences, to (re)discover the Louvre like never before. We've got a promo code for you!

Deux leçons d'Histoire de France: Maxime d'Aboville crosses the centuries at Théâtre de Poche

From May 15, 2025, Maxime d'Aboville revisits the History of France at the Théâtre de Poche Montparnasse with two literary and epic lessons, in Deux Leçons d'Histoire de France.

La Nuit Blanche in Paris, history and origins of this major contemporary art event

What exactly is the Nuit Blanche in Paris? This not-to-be-missed event returns to Paris this Saturday, June 7, 2025, with a host of artistic programs accessible free of charge for an entire night. But do you know what it stands for, and when and how this event dedicated to contemporary creation was born? Here's the history and origins of the famous Nuit Blanche in Paris.

Why is May 8 a public holiday in France?

One week after the famous May 1st, May 8th arrives. But do you remember why this day is also a public holiday in France? We tell you all about it, and take a look back at the history of this historic date.

Brazil-France 2025 season: a soccer quiz-debate at the Assia Djebar Library

Join the Djebar Football Club on May 16, 2025 at the Assia Djebar Library for the Brazil-France 2025 Season! On the program: a quiz-debate on Brazilian soccer, its history, its heroes and its social issues. A fun and committed event to discover without delay!

Where does the word Paname, the slang nickname for Paris, come from?

"Paname", the popular and affectionate nickname for Paris, has been intriguing people for over a century due to its widespread use, particularly in slang and artistic language. But what exactly is the origin of this surprising word, which is more reminiscent of Central America than of the French capital?

Why is rue du Poil-au-Con now called rue du Pélican in Paris?

In Paris, rue du Pélican, located in the 1st arrondissement, hides a sulphurous past: in the Middle Ages, it was called rue du Poil-au-Con, because prostitution was legalized under Saint-Louis. That's our story for today!

Did you know? In Paris, street numbers follow the course of the Seine.

In Paris, street numbering, introduced as early as the XIXᵉ century, follows a simple logic: it takes as its reference the river that crosses the capital.

Who was Roland Garros, the man behind the name of the famous Paris stadium?

Roland Garros, aviator and aeronautics pioneer from Reunion Island, gave his name to the stadium that hosts the French Open tennis tournament. But who was he? We tell you his story.

Paris coat of arms: history and significance of the boat on the capital's coat of arms

Why is there a boat on the Paris coat of arms? If you're wondering, the editors of Sortiraparis may have the answer. History of the Paris coat of arms, from the seal of the water merchants to the motto "Fluctuat nec mergitur"... We tell you all!

May 1st: why are lilies of the valley offered on this day? Origin and history

On May 1st, a plant is on display everywhere in France: the famous lily of the valley. But why do we offer a sprig of lily of the valley every May 1st? We explain the origins and history of this tradition.

Why is May 1st a public holiday in France? Origins and history of Labor Day

May 1st is a public holiday in France, and on this occasion we celebrate Labor Day. But do you know exactly why? And do you know the history of May 1st? We tell you.

Why is Easter Monday a public holiday in France? History and origins

It's one of the most important dates in the Christian religious calendar, if not the most important. As you may have guessed, we're talking about Easter. By the way, do you know what Catholics and Protestants celebrate on this day? And do you know why Easter Monday, which this year falls on April 21, 2025, is a public holiday? We'll tell you.

La Hublotière, Hector Guimard's Art Nouveau villa to visit this summer 2025 in Le Vésinet (78)

Have you heard of La Hublotière? This Art Nouveau villa, designed by Hector Guimard, is hidden away in the heart of Le Vésinet, in the Yvelines department. Exceptionally, it's opening its doors to the public this summer - a golden opportunity to discover our heritage!