French History

Les Journées du Patrimoine, or European Heritage Days, are events happening in all across Europe which aim to promote visits of monuments or buildings normally closed to the public. This event finds its roots in France with La Journée Portes Ouvertes (Open Doors Day) which was held in 1984. Every year, nearly 12 million visitors...Read More

When thinking of a place and a story to tell about the Marais, I thought of Victor Hugo’s house and museum at first, not too far from the famous Place des Vosges. But then I decided for a lesser-known endroit and chose to tell story of the Beguines’ Convent in Marais. This religious community used...Read More

The world mourns the tragic fire in central Paris, which last night engulfed Notre Dame cathedral, destroying its iconic spire. Today, we honor Notre Dame, symbolizing Paris, France, and Gothic architecture, reflecting on the many facts that make it iconic. The Cathedral of Notre Dame, muse of Victor Hugo, holds numerous secrets and curiosities, enriching...Read More

Visiting the Palace of Versailles soon? You might fancy a tour of the Trianon and the Queen’s hamlet, or the King’s apartments. The former residence of the last royal family of France looks exactly the same, like frozen in time. But did you know that a whole section of the Palace was already a museum...Read More