Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise, Paris
Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise
Address: 16 rue de Repos
Arrondissement: 20th
Hours: March through November 8:00am – 6:00pm; November through March 8:00am -5:30pm
Tickets: Free
WWW: Pere-Lachaise or for panoramic views go here.
About the Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise
Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise is one of the most legendary cemeteries in the world. It is an extremely popular tourist attraction and draws in one some of the largest crowds of any cemetery.
In France a temporary ban was placed on cemeteries, deeming them a health hazard. Once Napoleon Bonaparte lifted the ban in 1804, construction on the 109 acres began. Named after Pere Francois de La Chaise, Louis XIV spiritual advisor, the cemetery was seen as too far outside of the city and was considered inconvenient… at first. Olden marketing tactics were used and the bodies of writers Moliere and La Fontaine were moved here to attract plot buyers attention. Afterwards, popularity and population quickly increased because even then it was attractive to be buried amongst the rich and famous.
The cemetery also features beautifully built sculptures and structures throughout. Wealthy families often tried to out do the plots around them by having exquisite monuments erected for their dead. This competition resulted in some of the most spectacular gravesites on the planet.
Although not all of the deceased are French, the roll call is quite impressive at that. Great writers such as Honore de Balzac, Victor Noir and Oscar Wilde reside are buried here. World renown musicians from the likes of Bizet and Chopin all the way to rock star Jim Morrison rest their bones in this cemetery. Perfomrance artists such as opera singer Maria Callas and dancer Isadora Duncan can also be found among the gravesites along with artists such as Pissaro, Max Ernst, Delacroix and Cartellier and cinema stars like Sarah Bernhardt, Yves Montand and Simone Signoret.
The Cimetière du Père-Lachaise is as eerie as it is enchanting. It is advised that visitors get a map if there are specific headstones that you would like to see.
Getting to Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise
Visitors can find the cemetery by way of metro lines 2 and 3, Pere Lachaise station.
Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise Hotels
Here is a short guide to hotels near Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise
Located at 132 Boulevard Voltaire, the 2 star Residence Voltaire offers a great price for travelers on a budget. It is near attractions such as the Pere Lachaise cemetery and the authentic Parisian atmospheres of the Bastille and Nation district. Rates start at a low 32EUR per night for a standard room.
The 4 star, Les Jardins Du Marais, is located near the cemetery. Completely renovated, the property consists of 9 buildings which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. One of the buildings houses the authentic workshop of Gustave Eiffel and is deemed a historical structure. All of the 265 rooms have beautiful views of Paris or the private gardens. Rates start at 94EUR for a single room.
The 3 star property Classics Hotel Bastille is located at 131 rue de Charonne. The hotel sits smack dab in the middle of Place de la Bastille and the Pere Lachaise cemetery, which makes for an ideal sight seeing location. Each room is modern yet relaxing with soft lighting and current amenities. Rates start at 121EUR per night for a superior room.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.org
Bibliotheque Nationale de France, Paris
Bibliotheque Nationale de France
Address: Quai Francois-Mauriac 75706 Paris
Arrondissement: 13th
Hours: 9:00am – 8:00pm although some certain rooms hours may vary.
Tickets: Exhibition 7EUR; exhibition reduced rate 5EUR; lecture guided tour 4.5EUR
WWW: Bibliotheque Nationale de France
Phone: 33(0)1 53 79 59 59
About the Bibliotheque Nationale de France
The new Bibliothequq Nationale de France, translated to the National Library of France, was built in 1996. It is also known as Francois Mitterrand Library. It replaced the old library that was dubbed insufficient for all of France’s literary treasures.
The idea of a new building was proposed by France’s 1980’s President Francois Mitterrand who was known for his love of grand structures. The suggestion was applauded by all of Paris and so construction began under the watchful eye of architect Dominque Perrault.
Perrault’s concept of four 24 story towers, all of which are shaped like an open book and overlook an extraordinary center garden, is impressive. It was what anyone’s imagination would think a library to be and is able to take readers out of the busy city and into a world of fantasy. Perrault’s ideas went against the grain of the typical dingy, dungeon like library. The large, open, airy reading rooms have many windows to provide extra light for readers who sit on the contemporary yet comfortable variety of wooden furniture. The library can hold an upwards of 1,600 people at once making it one of the largest public libraries in the world.
From the library and its contents springs a strong source of pride felt by the people of France. Nearly 10 million important historical documents are available to qualified experts for viewing, some of which date all the way back to medieval times. The library attracts researchers from near and far. Although the public does not have access to some of the most precious archives, they do have admission to nearly 200,000 books and thousands upon thousands of periodicals. The library also takes part in special events such as temporary exhibitions, lectures, workshops and even the occasional performing arts concert.
Getting to Bibliotheque Nationale de France
Library visitors can find there way by way of metro line 6’s Quai de la Gare station.
Bibliotheque Nationale de France Hotels
Here is a short guide to hotels near Bibliotheque Nationale de France
Located at 28 Bis Bd Diderot, Hotel Helvetia, is located near the library as well as other wonderful attractions like the Bastille and the Marais districts. The hotel pays special attention to guests, offering a warm welcome and an ultra smart price. Rates start at a low 47EUR per night for a twin room with a shower.
The 3 star Logis de France Claret Bercy, located at 44 Bd De Bercy, is charming with its bright mix of colors combined with old French country flair. The former post house, the Claret hotel offers a fine restaurant which pays homage to the olden days of Bercy. It is located close to the library as well as other attractions such as Bercy Village and the Palais Omnisports complex. Rates start at 70EUR per night for a single room.
Four star Le Marceau Bastille is located at 13 rue Jules Cesar. The hotel has recently been renovated to reveal up to date comforts in combination with an artsy charm. Located in the heart of the energetic Bastille District, the atmosphere that surrounds the hotel only adds to an unforgettable stay. Rates start at 131EUR per night for a single room.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.org
Hotel de Ville, Paris
Hotel de Ville
Address: Place de l”hotel de Ville, Rue de Rivoli
Arrondissement: 4th
Hours: 10:00am – 10:00pm
Tickets: Varied
Phone: 01 42 76 50 49
About the Hotel de Ville
In the year 1246, Paris’ first borough was created. The trade guilds elected Alderman as their council. However, until 1357 there was no set municipal building to take care of business in. One of the Alderman bought house on the busy place de Greve, also known as Shore Harbor. The exquisite two story home featured two towers and arcades. It came to be known as the House of Pillars and served the municipality well. In 1553 a new structure was built on the site called Hotel de Ville. Built in Renaissance style, it was enlarged several times during the 19th century.
The building, like much of the city, has had a tumultuous past. From the early 1300’s all the way until 1830 when the last execution took place, the Place de Greve were the Hotel de Ville stands, is the site of many horrendous deaths. Many, many people were beheaded, quartered, cooked or burned at the stake here. The city tried to remove the haunting memories by renaming the building Place de l’Hotel de Ville after the last death sentence took place.
A revolting Commune that occupied the Hotel set the building on fire in May of 1771 in order to demolish valued city archives. After the Commune was defeated, the government held a competition to see which architect could petition to build the best, brightest new city hall. Theodore Ballu and Edouard Deperthes proposal to restore the Hotel de Ville back to its original state won over officials. In 1882 the new Hotel de Ville was inducted.
The building gained new life with the restoration. One hundred and eight gorgeous statues representing famous Parisian citizens stand proud on its exterior. Thirty more honor French cities. The clock tower is filled with feminine sculptures which represent the Seine River, the city of Paris, work and education. The interior decor is done in a III Empire style. Much admiration goes towards the interior stylings such as the large foyer staircase, the grand Salle des Fetes (ballroom), painted ceilings and walls, the breathtaking stained glass and the copious chandeliers. After 1830, the square was enlarged and in 1982 it shook it put its shaky past behind it seemingly for good and became a pedestrian zone, filled with merry tourists and locals alike. It still stands for its original purpose, as the Paris’ one of a kind city hall.
Getting to Hotel de Ville
You can reach the Hotel de Ville on metro line 1 or line 11 at the Hotel de Ville station.
Here is a short guide to hotels near Hotel de Ville.
Located at 19 rue de Rivoli, the 3 star Hotel Paris Rivoli is one of the closest to the Hotel de Ville attraction. In the heart of the Marais district, the hotel offers 29 rooms with wonderful amenities such as air conditioned rooms, individual bathrooms, computer connections, flat screen televisions and a welcome tray which says it all. The quaint interior is comforting and warm, as is the staff. Rates start at 68EUR per night for a standard room.
The 3 star Hotel Des Ducs Danjou, located at 1 rue Sainte Opportune, features lodging in the center of the city, close to the Hotel de Ville and other attractions like Le Marais, les Halles and Notre Dame. The rooms give off a warm glow so guests can relax after a day of seeing the sites of the city. Rooms come complete with air conditioning, flat screen televisions, computer connections and the hotels unique “Sweet Night” concept. Rates start at 97EUR per night for a single standard room.
The 4 star Novotel Paris Les Halles, located at 8 Place Marguerite de Navarre, features some of the best rates in Paris for all that it has to offer. The staff plays close attention to each and every guests comfort. The hotel works hard to make each stay unforgettable. Whether you are here for pleasure or business, the Novotel Paris Les Halles has you covered with a relaxing atmosphere, 8 meeting rooms and a catering package to boot. Rates start at 149EUR for a double room.
Photo of Hotel de Ville courtesy of Wikimedia.org
Arnes de Lutece, Paris
Arnes de Lutece
Address: Rue de Navarre, Rue des Arenes
Arrondissement: 5th
Hours: Winter 8:00am – 5:30pm; Summer 8:00am – 10:00pm
Tickets: Free
WWW: Arena de Lutece
Long ago, around the time of first century A.D. Paris was known as Lutetia. It stretched from the Ile de la Cite all the way down to the Left Bank. Prosperous Lutetia was a Galllo-Roman town during this period and the Arenes de Lutece is one of the few places in modern day Paris that this olden heritage can be found.
It is said that the Arenes de Lutece might have been one of the biggest arena of its kind built by the Romans. The sunken auditorium was enclosed by 8 foot walls with an astounding 38 meter stage. The nine niches around the arena are attributed to the amphitheatres excellent acoustics. There were also five indentations beneath the seating area, some of which open directly in the arena. It is believed that these cubbies housed caged animals for many events including circuses, gladiator showdowns and animal fighting. The bleachers sat nearly 15,000 with more comfortable seating for royalty and officials in the lower level and stone benches for women, children, slaves and poorer statuses. Here the city’s people could enjoy many events including circuses, sporting events and theater productions.
The magnificent arena was destroyed in the 3rd century and was transformed into a cemetery. Some of its stone and other materials were strewn about the city for building purposes. It was completely filled in during the 3rd century and rediscovered 16 centuries later during the building of a tram station. Today it is a monument and treasured park to the city of Paris.
Getting to Arenes de Lutece
You can find the Arenes de Lutece by riding metro lines 7 or 10 until you get to the Jussieu station.
Located at 14 Rue des Cordelieres, the 2 star Aladdin Hotel is perfect for the traveler on a budget. It is close to the Left Bank in historic Marche Mouffetard, the Latin Quarter, the Pantheon and Jardin des Plantes. The hotel features a pleasant, homey atmosphere with each of its 29 rooms over looking a quite Parisian street scene or a lovely inner garden. Rates start at a low 38EUR per night.
Located at 1 Rue Casimir Delvaigne, the 3 star Hotel Delavigne is a quaint hotel with a traditional Parisian look. It is close to the famed and fantastic Latin Quarter, Luxembourg Gardens, Odeon Theatre and close by many antique cinemas, theatres and museums as well as top of the line restaurant such as Les Deux Magots. All 34 rooms are equipped with private baths and Wifi connections. Prices start at 92EUR per night.
Located at 7 Rue de L’hotel Colbert, the beautiful 4 star Hotel Le Colbert is a perfectly luxurious place to rest your weary head after a long day exploring Paris. The hotel was recently and completely renovated. It keeps its early 19th century charm but with modern amenities such as air conditioning and internet connections. There is also a fine restaurant, elegant lobby area and bar, currency exchange desk and 24 hour reception services. Prices start at 155EUR per night.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.org
Opera de Paris Garnier, Paris
Opera de Paris Garnier
Address: Place de l’Opera
Arrondissement: 9th
Hours: Varies.
Tickets: Varies.
WWW: Opera de Paris Garnier
Phone: 0 892 89 90 90 (0,34€ la minute) or le +33 1 72 29 35 35
Email: resa.internet@opera-de-paris.fr
The Opera des Paris was built by Charles Garnier for its patron, Emperor Napolean III. A small underground lake delayed construction which ran from 1862 – 1875 but it was wealth worth the effort. The beautiful buildings pond became the hiding place of the “Phantom of the Opera” in the infamous play. It still stands as one of the most magnificent symbols of the 19th century baroque style architecture. Although it has a minuet seating capacity of 2,200, it still remains one of the most enormous theaters in the world. It stretches 172 meters long, 125 meters wide with a soaring height of 736 meters. As if the splendid façade wasn’t enough, the massive buildings baroque interior styling includes a 30 meter marble Grand staircase, mosaic ceiling tiles and giant chandeliers. Just beyond the impressive foyer, the copper domed auditorium that features a giant 6 ton chandelier, red velvet fabrics, flying cherubs and a handpainted ceiling by Marc Chagall. The stage rooms up to 450 actors. The inspiring and remarkable Opera is now used mainly for ballets since the opening of the Opera de Paris Bastille in 1989.
Getting to Opera des Paris Garnier
You can find Opera des Paris Garnier on tube lines 3, 7 or 8 at station Opera.
Opera des Paris Garnier Hotels
Located at 21 Boulevard de Clichy, the 2 star TimHotel Saint Georges truly offers more bang for your buck. The recently renovated hotel features 74 snug rooms with a view of either the inner garden or the beautiful Montmarte structure. It is also close by theatres, nightclubs and cabaret bars including the infamous Moulin Rouge. It is a great place to call home during your stay in Paris. Prices start at 40EUR per night.
Located at 22 Rue d’Antin, 3 star Hotel France d’Antin is a tranquil place to stay during your busy time in Paris. The neutral décor and beautiful furnishings add an inviting ambiance to all of the rooms. The hotel is also a few steps from the Opera, La Madeleine church, the Louvre and great Parisian shopping. Prices start at 101EUR per night.
Located at 21 Rue Lavoisier, the 4 star Le Lavoisier hotel is perfect for the traveler who wants peace and quiet after a busy day about the city. The townhouse, located on a quiet side street next to Rue St. Honor, dates back to the 1800’s. The façade and interior keeps some of its 19th century charms but the Le Lavoisier has been renovated with pastel shades and neo classical furniture to give it boutique hotel appeal. It is truly serene and relaxing stay. Prices start at 158EUR per night.
Photo of the Grand Foyer courtesy of Wikimedia.org
Pont Neuf, Paris
Pont Neuf
Address: Ilele de la Cite
Arrondissement: 1st
Hours: No set hours.
Ticketing: Free.
About Pont Neuf
During the mid 1500’s, Paris’ two bridges over the Seine were a constant mob scene and in very poor condition. In 1578, King Henry III decided it was time to change all of that and construct a new bridge. The bridge was opened in 1607 by King Henry IV who oversaw most of the construction. He dubbed it “Pont Neuf.” Upon his death, an equestrian statue of King Henry IV was positioned in the middle of the bridge in his honor for all to see. The bronze statue, like many Parisian landmarks, went through hardships during the French Revolution. It was knocked down and melted during this period but was replaced shortly after in 1818.
The bridge was very contemporary for its time. It is 232 meters long and 22 meters wide. It was the first without housing built on it but rather it was paved with rounded areas. It provided the perfect spot for socializing. It has a grand total of 12 stunning arches. Pont Neuf is surely Paris’ most celebrated, not to mention beautiful, bridge. Today the bridge can still be used as a socialization point, meeting place or you can take a boat ride beneath it to admire its stunning architectural details.
Getting to Pont Neuf
Pont Neuf can be reached by metro line 7’s Pont Neuf station or line 4’s Cite station.
Located at 84-86 Rue Saint-Denis, the delightful 1 star Hotel de la Vallee is situated in a lively pedestrian area. It is within walking distance many wonderful attractions such as Pont, Neuf, Le Musee Beaubourg, Louvre and Notre Dame. Regardless of the noise outside, the hotels rooms are all quiet and comfortable and come with a personal bathroom. Prices start at 40EUR per night.
Located at 1 Rue Geoffery Marie, the 3 star Madrid Opera hotel is convenient for those mixing business with pleasure. It is located near infamous Parisian department stores, fine cuisine at restaurant like Folies Berg restaurant and many excellent theaters. The stock exchange is also near by, ideal for business purposes. There is even a bar available to drink away a long working days sorrow. Prices start at 103EUR per night.
Located at 1 Place Vendome, the 5 star Hotel de Vendome is the place to be if you really want to spend your days in luxury. With sumptuous ammenties, regal restaurants, elite service and sweeping views of the city, you may not want to venture out of the hotel once you arrive! Prices start at 342EUR per night.
Photo of Pont Neuf courtesy of Wikimedia.org
Place de la Concorde, Paris
Place de la Concorde
Address: Place de la Concorde, 75008 Paris
Arrondissement: 8th arrondissement
Hours: Open year round. No set hours.
About the Place de la Concorde
This octagonal square is by far the largest in all of Paris. It holds a rich history dating back to the early 18th century. The Place de la Concorde was established when a large statue of King Louis XV was installed here in 1763 after he overcame a serious, almost deadly illness. A surrounding statue was added several years later, in 1772 to be exact, by architect Jacques-Ange Gabriel. The square was then called place Louis XV.
Several years later the French Revolution swept Paris. In 1792, the statue was replaced by a larger statue called “Liberte” or freedom and the square was dubbed place de la Revolution. A guillotine was also placed here. Over a short time period nearly 1,119 people were beheaded here including King Louis XVI, Marie-Antoinette and Robespierre. It was renamed several times until 1830 when the fitting name, Place de la Concorde stuck.
In the 19th century a 3200 year old obelisk from the temple of Ramses II at Thebes was added to the infamous square. Standing 23 meters tall and weighing nearly 230 tons, the pink granite piece was offered to Louis Philippe by the Viceroy of Egypt. Philippe obliged. The obelisk is covered with ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs featuring stories of Ramses II and Ramses III. They also describe the transportation of the obelisk from Egypt to Paris.
As if that weren’t enough history stuffed into one spot, at each corner of the octagon a statue was placed from 1836 to 1846 when the site was redesigned by Jacob Ignaz Hittorf. Each represents a different French city: Bordeaux, Brest, Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, Rouen and Strasbourg. Two fountains, “La fontaine de Mers” and “Elevation of Martime” were also installed during these years by Hittorf.
Getting to Place de la Concorde
Place de la Concorde’s Concorde Station can be reached by metro lines 1, 8 or 12.
Here is a short guide to hotels near Place de la Concorde.
Located at 29 rue D’amsterdam, 3 star Hotel de la Fleche D’or offers fantastic quality for less. The 61 guest rooms offer relaxation with neutral decor and wooden furnishings. Amenities such as air conditioning, cable television, mini bars, in-room safes, hairdryers and telephones are in all rooms. The hotel is situated a stones throw from the Concorde and Liege tube stations. Rates for en-suite’s start at 47EUR per night.
Located at 38 rue du Faubourg Saint Honore, 4 star Hotel de Castiglione offers guests a wonderful stay. In the middle of the prestigious fashion and shopping, the hotel is close to many different sights and sounds including Place de la Concorde. It has recently been renovated and offers charm from the years it was built (in the 1930s) complete with elegant and modern amenities. The hotel is situated near the Concorde and Champs Elysees tube stations. Rates for a twin sole use room start at a low 95EUR per night.
Located at 3 rue de Montalembert, 4 star Hotel Montalembert is the ultimate in luxury. Built in 1926, it was dubbed as the very first boutique hotel in Paris. It, as well as the road it is situated on, was named after Charles Forbes Montalembert – a famous politician, writer and member of Academie Franse. The hotel offers top of the line amenities and dining. There are cozy nooks near the fireplace, terrace, restaurant and bar for guests to enjoy the views and their stay to the fullest. Single room rates start at 203EUR and include breakfast. The hotel is no further than a few kilometers from Place de la Concorde and has tube stations Concorde, Cite and Rue du Bac close by.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.org
Places des Vosges, Paris
Place des Vosges
Arrondissement: 3rd arrondissement
Hours: Open everyday, year round. No set hours.
Phone: 01 42 72 10 16
About the Place des Vosges
Place des Vosges is the oldest square in all of Paris and certainly one of the most beautiful. It dates back to 1388 when the prestigious “Hotel de Tournelles” occupied the site. It was the home of the Royal family until 1559 when King Henry II was several wounded in a tournament held in the square. He died of his inflictions several days later. His widow, Catherine de Medici, had the Hotel demolished and moved to the Louvre.
In 1604 King Henry IV built a Royal pavilion at the square’s southern point. It was built by architect Baptists du Cerceau. After its completion the King ordered 35 more buildings to border the square. All of the structures were to follow the exact same design plan as the southern building. The first building, in the center of the southern side, was dubbed the King’s pavilion and was built atop the square’s gate. Directly opposite was the Queen’s pavilion.
The square continued to serve as a place where events such as duels and other equestrian events took place. In 1639, a statue of King Louis XIII was placed here but destroyed during the French Revolution. It was reconstructed and installed again in 1825. During the 19th century Napoleon changed the name from Place Royale to Place des Vosges to show his admiration for the Vosges department, the first department in France to pay taxes. The names were flip flopped once more until Place des Vosges became permanent in 1870. Many other famous Frenchmen lived in Place des Vosges such as Cardinal Richelieu and Victor Hugo.
Today the park is serene, filled with cafes, restaurants and people soaking up the sun.
Getting to Place des Vosges
Visitors can find Place des Vosges via several tube stations – the Bastille station on lines 1, 5 and 8; the Chemin Vert station on line 1; the Paul station on line 8.
Here is a short guide to hotels near Place des Vosges.
At 44 Boulevard Richard Lenoir , the Aux Trois Portes is surrounded by locations at the center of the city including Place des Vosges, the Marais district which is bustling with life both day and night and the Montmarte which offers spectacular views. Located a kilometer from the Place des Vosges, two star Aux Trois Portes is nearest the Bastille, Chemin Vert, St. Paul and Breguet Sabin station. Rooms start at 37.33EUR per night.
Located at 5 rue Castex, the Castex Hotel has been completely done over in a XVII century style. It reflects the Golden Age of the Marais district with a vaulted stone cellar, Toile wallpaper, tomette flour tiles and Louis XIII furnishings. There is free internet, WIFI and computer usage for guests as well as taxi, theatre, show and restaurant booking. Located a less than a kilometer from the Place des Vosges, three star Castex Hotel is nearest the Bastille, Chemin Vert, St. Paul and Breguet Sabin station. Rates start at 100EUR per night.
Located at 6 eue des Archives, the Villa Mazarin has a discrete entry way which reflects the tone of the hotel. It offers safety and comfort all in one. It exudes a certain ambience with its lantern light halls and beautifully colored walls. It is right near the famous “Bazaar” shopping place as well as many other boutiques, restaurants and bars in the Marais district. Located a less than a kilometer from the Place des Vosges, three star Villa Mazarin is nearest the Bastille, Chemin Vert, St. Paul and Hotel de Ville stations. Rates start at 154EUR per night.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.org
Saint Chapelle, Paris
Saint Chapelle
Address: 4 boulevard du Palais
Arrondissement: 1st arrondissement
Hours: March 1 – October 31 hours are 9:30am – 6:00pm. From November 1 – February 28 hours are 9:00am – 5:00pm.
Phone: 33 (01) 53 40 60 80
About the Saint Chapelle
The origins of Saint Chapelle date back to the days of Louis IX. The King had recently purchased relics from the Passion – the Crown of Thorns and a fragment of the True Cross – from Byzantine Emperor Baldwin II. He had paid a hefty 135,000 livres for these items and conceptualized the perfect place to house them. His chosen architect was Pierre de Montrueil and ground was broken in 1242 for the Saint Chapelle, which translates to the Holy Chapel.
The chapel was complete within 6 years and is considered the epitome of Rayonanant style of French Gothic architecture. There is nearly 600 square meters of exquisite stained glass in the upper chapel. The windows were twice removed to protect them during the 19th century and during World War II. This part of the structure housed relics and was reserved for the King and his family and friends. The lower chapel, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, was kept for the king’s staffers. It is a bit more humble but gorgeous none the less. It also holds the tombs of some of the former priests.
Saint Chapelle had been heavily damaged during the French Revolution and many relics and pieces of the chapel were destroyed or never seen again, including the original spire. The 33 meter spire on atop the roof was placed here in the 19th century but is an exact replica of the spire that previously sat there in the 15th century. The Saint Chapelle is one of the most perfect examples of Gothic architecture in the world and is not to be missed.
Getting to Saint Chapelle
Visitors can find Saint Chapelle via metro line 4’s Cite station.
Here is a short guide to hotels near Saint Chapelle.
Located at 1 rue Chenier, the 2 star Hotel Baby, offers recently refurbished rooms and ammenties to guests including a personal shower and toiler, hair dryer, television and a direct phone. There is a safe in the reception goods. A delicious continental breakfast is also served at the lounge tables or in the room if you so desire. Rates start at 48EUR for a standard room. Hotel Baby is less than 1 kilometer from Saint Chapelle and has the Cite, Bonne Nouvelle and Strasbourg Saint-Denis tube stations right outside of its door.
Located at 56 rue Monsieur Le Prince, 3 star Hotel Le Clos Medicis offers superb services for a low cost. The decor is tastefully done and is the ultimate in Parisian chic and comfort. There is also a salon with bar and a patio with wonderful city views. A standard room starts at 108EUR and includes comforting room amenities and a breakfast. It is less that 1 kilometer from Saint Chapelle and only a stones throw from the Cite and Cluny la Sorbonne tube stations.
Located at 3 rue de Montalembert, 4 star Hotel Montalembert is the ultimate in luxury. Built in 1926, it was dubbed as the very first boutique hotel in Paris. It, as well as the road it is situated on, was named after Charles Forbes Montalembert – a famous politician, writer and member of Academie Franse. The hotel offers top of the line amenities and dining. There are cozy nooks near the fireplace, terrace, restaurant and bar for guests to enjoy the views and their stay to the fullest. Single room rates start at 203EUR and include breakfast. The hotel is no further than a few kilometers from Saint Chapelle and has tube stations Cite and Rue du Bac close by.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.org