The Tour Jean-sans-Peur, a medieval treasure in Paris

Immerse yourself in medieval history at the Tour Jean-sans-Peur in Paris. The last vestige of the Hôtel des Ducs de Bourgogne Valois, the Tour Jean sans Peur was built in 1409 and offers a glimpse of life in the Middle Ages in a reconstructed residence. It currently houses an exhibition on Health in the Middle Ages, which runs until September 10, 2023 (excluding the month of August).

There are places in Paris steeped in history: the Tour Jean sans Peur is one of them. Entering the Tour Jean-sans-Peur, located in the heart of Paris, you're instantly transported six centuries back in time. Open throughout July, including the 14th, from 1.30 pm to 6 pm, this medieval tower invites visitors to discover the fascinating history of the Dukes of Burgundy and the daily life of the period.

This architectural treasure, the last vestige of the Parisian palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, tells the story of centuries of history. The Tour Jean-sans-Peur, built in 1409, stands proudly, harboring the mysteries of medieval life. When you step inside, you don't just gain access to a monument, but a truly immersive experience.

From its narrow façade to the sumptuous staircase topped by a plant canopy symbolizing the family tree of John the Fearless, every element of the tower is a treasure to be explored. Discover its astonishing central staircase and the secrets of its construction, from the choice of materials to the engraved details that reveal the ambitions and power of its owners.

At the time, the tower was part of the fortified ramparts of medieval Paris. You'll be amazed to discover how the tower provided strategic access for John the Fearless, enabling him to avoid the crowded streets.

It is also amazing to see how functional and modern the tower was for its time:

Rooms on five levels
Rooms with fireplaces
Narrow windows with stained glass
Latrines with drainpipes
Heating system

This edifice, narrowly saved from destruction, is now a dynamic museum where you can (re)learn about medieval history. Preserved from destruction over the centuries, the Tour Jean sans Peur was rediscovered in 1866 during work in the town. It was soon classified as a historic monument and restored in 1891.

Thanks to a playful itinerary, young and old alike can immerse themselves in this fascinating period. Children can enjoy a game trail with riddles to decipher, and all visitors can admire custom-made objects and reconstructions of medieval settings.

Don't miss the temporary exhibitions open until September 10, 2023:

"Health in the Middle Ages"
What were the perceptions of the human body during the Middle Ages? What were the theoretical bases for the medical methods of the time? What processes and ingredients were used to concoct medicines? How was a medical consultation conducted? Was anesthesia used? What afflictions were commonly encountered? By exploring six key areas (the foundations of health, medical interventions, collective health, pathologies, practitioners' tools and surgery), this exhibition, enriched by nearly one hundred documents, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the roles of doctor and patient in medieval Western Europe.
"Gamins et Poupardes", on Parisian childhoods in the 19th century
Considered the era of melancholy, forced labor and venereal affections, the 19th century was not lacking in terms of advances. Extending its "Youth in the Middle Ages" exhibition, the Tour Jean Sans Peur ventures to present that of the century marked by the industrial revolutions, an era teeming with rural exodus and demographic upheaval - from the birth of the "poupard", that noisy, eager infant, to its vagabond elder, the "gamin". Equipped with your oil lantern, follow the walls of the tower and successively illuminate these school archives, lithographs, paintings and photographs; climb tirelessly up the stone spiral staircase until you lose yourself in the meanders of the past...

Practical information:

A tour of the tower's five levels, including two temporary exhibitions and access to the garden, takes around 1h30. Reservations are essential for groups, while individuals can visit the tower on a self-guided basis or during a guided tour at 3pm on Sundays (please arrive at 2:30pm to reserve your place).

As for children, they're not to be outdone. For 4-6 year-olds and 7-12 year-olds, a game trail is available for family visits. Allow around 1 hour for a 6-year-old and 1.5 hours for a child over 7. What's more, the opportunity to enjoy a snack in the small garden, as well as a reading and play area on the first floor, makes the visit even more enjoyable for the little ones.

In conclusion, the Tour Jean-sans-Peur is a fantastic escape back in time, in the heart of medieval Paris, where history, architecture and culture mingle. It's a hidden gem that deserves to be discovered and shared. A wonderful discovery for the whole family.