Journées du Patrimoine 2023: a walk alongside Emile Zola at the Cité internationale des Arts

Are you familiar with the International City of Arts? This nonprofit foundation provides a welcoming space for numerous artists throughout the year, offering them a place to create, innovate, and showcase their work, just steps away from the Marais district in Paris. The artists residing here already turn the space into an exciting hub for art enthusiasts... But the story behind this unique place is just as fascinating!

The concept of the International City of Arts was conceived in 1937 during the Paris International Exposition. It was Finnish artist Eero Snellman who first proposed creating this cultural hub during a speech. After World War II, the idea gained momentum, and in 1965, the City officially opened its doors. To discover more about this fascinating place and learn which artists are currently based there, take advantage of the Heritage Days!

This cultural event is making a comeback in Paris on September 16 and 17, 2023. To celebrate, the International City of Art is opening its doors to all visitors free of charge. For its 40th edition, new installations and performances will be unveiled, offering a fresh experience for the public. Don’t miss the chance to discover this one-of-a-kind venue.

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• This Week's Best Deals in Paris and Île-de-France, December 15–21, 2025

Here's what's happening during the Heritage Days at the Cité Internationale des Arts:

Aucun événement annoncé à ce jour, le programme est mis à jour en fonction des annonces officielles.

Explore all the tours and activities scheduled throughout the heart of Paris.

Journées du Patrimoine 2025 in Paris (75): full schedule of visits by arrondissement
For the Journées du Patrimoine 2025 in Paris, the capital's historic and artistic monuments and landmarks are opening their doors (often free of charge) to let us in on their secrets. Don't miss this not-to-be-missed event, scheduled for the weekend of September 20 and 21, 2025, on the theme of "Architectural Heritage". [Read more]