Throughout the capital's arrondissements, there are unmissable spots... and little secrets. Sometimes well hidden, these elements that arouse the curiosity of passers-by are often discovered by getting lost in the maze of Parisian streets. Paris may be known for its freestone facades and its Haussmann-style architecture, but architects have sometimes been known to take a more daring approach to their work. Such is the case with this building in Paris's 5th arrondissement.
Not far from the famous Jardin du Luxembourg and the emblematic Panthéon, you'll need to make your way down Rue Pierre Nicole to n°11 bis. This is where you'll discover thestrange remains of Roman ruins, embedded in this contemporary facade, inside which is a trompe-l'œil fresco. The work was created in the 1980s byvisual artist Ncoc Duong Varoqui. Inspired by the ruins of Pompeii, the city that disappeared following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, it is a nod to the Latin Quarter in which it is located, a reminder of the past of this arrondissement, which extends overancient Lutetia.
Don't forget, if you're passing by, that this is a residential building: you'll need to respect the neighbors and make sure you don't disturb their peace and quiet. This means not making noise, letting residents pass, not taking photos - in short, following the rules of decorum.
While this ruin is a fake, authentic remains of antiquity can be found in the surrounding area, such as the Arènes de Lutèce or the Thermes de Cluny. And if you love discovering secret nuggets, not far from here, a hidden museum awaits you in the heart of a historic former hospital: the Musée des Services de Santé de l'armée du Val-de-Grâce. During your visit, you'll also have the opportunity to discover the beautiful Val-de-Grâce church.
Where can you see the remains of Lutetia, the Paris of antiquity? Walk in the footsteps of the ancient city
Before Paris, there was Lutetia. During Antiquity, the capital was part of the Roman Empire, and some of its remains are still visible today... if you know where to look! Here's where to discover the ruins of Lutetia in Paris. Let's take a stroll in the footsteps of the ancient city! [Read more]
Location
Fake Roman ruins
11 Rue Pierre Nicole
75005 Paris 5
Access
Port-Royal (RER B)
Where can you see the remains of Lutetia, the Paris of antiquity? Walk in the footsteps of the ancient city
