Le saviez vous guide

The little history of Parisian furniture: the Wallace Fountain, a gift that saved the city from thirst

Silhouette of a green cast-iron fountain, an iconic fixture of Parisian squares, the Wallace fountain is much more than a free water source. It stands as a monument to philanthropy and a masterpiece of sculpture, reminding us that in Paris, even drinking water is a moment of beauty. Discover the story of these guardians of thirst, serving life at street corners for over 150 years.

The Little History of Parisian Furniture: The Morris Column, a Beautiful Showcase for Advertising in Paris

A familiar silhouette of the city landscape, the Morris column is much more than just an advertising pillar. A true beacon of cultural life, it has adorned the sidewalks of the capital with its deep green hue and vibrant posters since the 19th century. Let’s take a look back at the history of a piece of urban furniture that has outlived countless city transformations to remain a cherished link between Parisians and live entertainment.

Did you know? The Queen's Hamlet at Versailles was nearly lost to history, only to be saved by Napoleon I.

It’s one of Versailles’ most iconic backdrops. Built between 1783 and 1786 at the heart of the Petit Trianon, the Queen’s Hamlet appears as a quaint Norman village frozen in time. Yet behind its thatched roofs and vegetable gardens lie realities far removed from the fairy-tale image of the “occasional farmer” often associated with Marie-Antoinette.

From the Hôtel d'Évreux to the Élysée Palace: Between Private Mansion and State Secrets

Before becoming the office of the President of the Republic, 55 Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré was the dream project of a single man: Count d'Évreux. Built in 1718, this private mansion was then regarded as the most beautiful residence on the outskirts of Paris. Let’s take a look back at the history of a building that survived revolutions and went on to become the very heart of the State.

What is contained within this mysterious jar with a sorrowful story, nestled deep in the crypt of Saint-Denis Basilica?

Did you know that a jar hidden in the crypt of Saint-Denis contains the dried heart of a child king? Amid thefts, DNA analyses, and centuries of mystery, explore the remarkable story behind the relic of Louis XVII.

Why is there a hidden sausage tucked away in a drawer of a table at the Auberge Ravoux?

Behind the historic walls of the Auberge Ravoux lies a story just as rich and intriguing, though far less tragic than that of Van Gogh. Did you know that the renowned André Malraux, former Minister of Culture and a frequent visitor, left behind an unexpectedly playful mark on the place?

Did you know? This Egyptian temple in the 10th arrondissement hides a cinema and a rooftop bar beneath its historic façade.

Forget the pyramids—hidden at the intersection of Boulevard de la Chapelle and Boulevard de Magenta is one of Paris's most captivating treasures: the Louxor. This iconic cinema, with its façade decorated with pharaohs and gilded mosaics, transports visitors to another world.

Why was the Rotunda of Parc Monceau once considered Paris's most hated building?

Before transforming into the elegant gateway to one of the capital's most beautiful gardens, the renowned Rotunda of Parc Monceau had a less glamorous role — that of a customs house! Dive into the history of this unusual monument, a rare survivor from a time when entering Paris didn’t come free of charge!

Did you know? 3 unusual anecdotes about Père Lachaise cemetery

Père Lachaise is one of the world's most famous cemeteries. Its famous tombs, its mysteries and its fascinating history. But how much do you really know about it? We reveal 3 unusual anecdotes about the Père Lachaise cemetery.

Are you familiar with this little-known covered passage that’s getting a major facelift, located near the Galerie Vivienne?

In Paris’s 2nd arrondissement, the Galerie Colbert has just completed a three-year restoration project spanning from 2022 to 2025. Join us as we revisit this cultural jewel and delve into the fascinating story behind its unique heritage.

What secrets lie behind this Art Nouveau façade and its stunning cork-shaped roof?

At 140 Rue de Rennes in Paris stands a striking building, its corner turret unlike any other. Celebrating the heyday of department stores and the Art Nouveau movement, the former Félix Potin commercial building is a testament to innovation and bold design.

Did you know? The very first nightclub opened its doors in Paris, near the Palais-Royal.

Far from the traditional dance bands, a musical revolution took place after World War II near the Palais-Royal. It was there that Régine replaced the jukebox with turntables, giving birth to the discotheque!

Did you know? Who was Max Linder, after whom the cinema in the 9th arrondissement is named?

A symbol of auteur cinema in Paris, the Max Linder Panorama perpetuates the memory of its founder, a pioneer of silent film. Behind this legendary theater lies the tragic story of a visionary artist who left his mark on the history of cinema. But who was Max Linder? Let us tell you.

Good deal: get discounts by keeping your admission ticket for another museum

Here's a little-known but very useful tip: some Parisian museums offer discounts to visitors who present their admission ticket to another museum.

The last 13 Christmas trees at Galeries Lafayette from 2025 to 2013

Discovering the huge Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette has become a real tradition in Paris. Every year since 1976, it has adorned the center of the dome of the famous Parisian department store. Like every year, everyone has their say on whether it was better or worse than last year. So we thought a little falsh back of the photos from the last 12 years would give you a better opportunity to compare.

Did you know? The expression "to wait 107 years" is linked to the cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris.

"We're not going to wait a hundred and seven years!"This typically French expression, as grumpy as it is exaggerated, has its roots in medieval Paris. Between dust and hammers, it comes from the interminable construction site of Notre-Dame de Paris, where the wait put Parisians' legendary patience to the test.