History

What is Hanukkah celebrating? The history and significance of this Jewish Festival of Lights

Jewish communities will celebrate Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, from December 14 to December 22, 2025. But where does this tradition come from, and what does it truly symbolize? Here’s what you need to know.

Why do we celebrate Saint Nicholas Day on December 6? Origin and history of this regional holiday

While December is a month that fills all young children with wonder thanks to the arrival of Santa Claus, the beginning of the month is also marked by Saint Nicholas Day. Celebrated every December 6, this holiday is a tradition that is scrupulously observed in several French regions, such as Alsace and Lorraine. So, who is Saint Nicholas, and what is the history of this holiday? Let us tell you all about it.

Christmas in Paris: the story of the legendary Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann

Every year, Galeries Lafayette enchants the holiday season with its iconic Christmas tree, which attracts curious visitors from around the world. This tradition dates back many years! Let's take a look back at the history of this essential part of Christmas in Paris!

French history and traditions in Paris: Christmas window displays in department stores

Christmas window displays in Paris are a real part of the city's heritage! Every year during the holiday season, passersby flock to department stores to admire the decorations and displays designed to inspire young and old alike.

Did you know? France's roads start at ground zero, in front of Notre-Dame de Paris.

Paris' long history gives it a number of advantages, not least that of being the starting point for all the roads in France. It has been the country's capital for centuries, and is home to ground zero, located on the forecourt of Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Travel through 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!

Fêtes Galantes 2026, a lavish costume party at the Palace of Versailles - ticket office date

The Fêtes Galantes are back at the Palace of Versailles! For one evening, on Monday, May 25, 2026, slip into the shoes of a marquis or princess and take part in the dances and games of this wild celebration, which ends in style with fireworks! Ticket sales open on Thursday, November 13, at 2 p.m.

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.

Les Impériales de Fontainebleau: murder mystery party, entertainment, and ball based on the Egyptian expedition

On the weekend of November 15 and 16, 2025, Les Impériales de Fontainebleau invites you to discover Napoleon's First Empire as if you were there, but this time in Egypt, through conferences, murder mystery parties, balls, and family exhibitions!

Histoire de Lire 2025: the historical book fair in Versailles

For its new edition, the Histoire de Lire book fair returns to the Hôtel de Ville and the Ancienne Poste de Versailles on November 22 and 23, 2025. Nearly 200 authors will be present at this event, which is open to all, to share their love of history.

Did you know? There is a huge open-air water reservoir between the rooftops in Passy.

Since 1866, the 16th arrondissement has been home to the Passy Reservoir, a vast hydraulic structure perched on the Chaillot hill. Designed by engineer Eugène Belgrand during the Second Empire, this discreet site still supplies non-drinking water to gardens and fountains in western Paris.

The Viking Immersive City: last days of the historical experience at Westfield Carré Sénart (77)

Immerse yourself in the Viking era in France with an immersive, sensory experience, from December 20, 2024 to November 2, 2025, at the Westfield Carré Sénart, featuring sound and light shows, scenery and artifact displays.

Maison Hetzel: the home of Jules Verne's publisher, an endangered heritage site in Sèvres (92)

In the heart of Sèvres, discover the Maison Hetzel! A small troupe struggles to bring to life the history of this place where the family of this renowned publisher, who published Jules Verne and his Voyages extraordinaires, lived.

Why is November 11 a public holiday in France? History and origins

Every year in France, there are countless tributes and commemorations on the occasion of November 11th. But do you know why November 11th is such a historic date in France? And why is it a national holiday in France? We tell you.

Why is November 1st a public holiday? The history and origins of All Saints' Day

As in many other countries, November 1st is a public holiday in France. But do you know why All Saints' Day is not celebrated? And do you know the history and origins of this holiday? We tell you.

Did you know that a sublime and unusual Parisian façade is hidden in Cité Malesherbes?

Among the most beautiful facades and buildings in Paris is the one designed by architect Anatole Jal, for and by painter Pierre-Jules Jollivet. Nestled in the peaceful, hidden Cité Malesherbes, this marvel of biblical scenes is well worth a visit. We tell you all about it.

Following in the footsteps of the Aqueduc Médicis, where can you find the last remains in the 14th arrondissement?

Today, water flows easily beneath our feet, but there was a time when an aqueduct, the Médicis, carried water from Rungis with greater difficulty. Although it is less useful today than it was in the 17th century, there are still a few remnants to be discovered when strolling through the 14th arrondissement.

Moon Festival or Mid-Autumn Festival: origin and significance of this Asian festival

Every year, several Asian countries celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, better known as the Moon Festival, on the evening of the 15thᵉ day of the eighth lunar month. This year, the date is Monday, October 6, 2025. So, what's the story behind this festival and where does it come from? Let's find out.

3 original anecdotes about the tombs of the kings and queens of France at the Basilique-Saint-Denis

Between original or touching anecdotes and French history, Noémie Nunes, in charge of communications at CMN, reveals the treasures of the Basilique Saint-Denis, whose spire is about to be reborn thanks to an extraordinary worksite.