The catacombs are one of the strangest and most mysterious places in Paris. Originally, the galleries were the stone quarries used to build Paris and Notre Dame in particular. It was in the 19th century that they became what we know today and can even visit: a gigantic ossuary. Why was this done? For reasons of public health...
It is one of the largest and tallest monuments in Paris. Its dome can be seen from afar and it covers a place where the greatest French geniuses are laid to rest. A journey through French history and an architectural feat: the Panthéon is a place of French pride. Here's the story and the tour with Monsieur de France.
The metro is inseparable from Paris. From its date of birth to the famous crickets that make noise in the tunnels. From the shortest line to the slowest, discover 10 amusing anecdotes about the Paris metro.
The bateaux-mouches are an essential part of the Parisian landscape. These cruise ships, invented in Lyon, have been transporting passengers on the Seine since 1867. They offer the chance to discover France's capital from the Seine. You can either take a stroll with a commentary on the city's history, or enjoy a romantic dinner cruise.
Although far less impressive than Notre Dame in terms of its dimensions, the Sainte Chapelle is a true Parisian treasure that must be seen at least once. Designed by Saint Louis to house the relics of Christ's Crown of Thorns, this monument is all glass and color. For nearly 8 centuries, its beauty has touched the hearts of all who see it. History and tour by Monsieur de France.
French destinies
Paris and Ile de France
Executioners from father to son: the Sansons family
Jérôme Prod'homme
The first of them fainted during his first execution, and no one would have bet that he would be the origin of the most famous dynasty of executioners in French history. One member of the family beheaded Louis XVI, Marie-Antoinette and the most famous names of the French Revolution. Another died in a work accident, and the last was fired for playing cards with the guillotine... Discover the astonishing story of the Sanson dynasty.
So French
Paris and Ile de France
The croissant: a French delicacy from elsewhere...
Jérôme Prod'homme
It's one of France's most famous delicacies: the croissant. It's one of the first things tourists eat, and has been a symbol of breakfast, vacations and indulgence for the French for quite some time. Not as long as you might think, in fact, since not only did the croissant arrive from Austria in the 19th century, but it was only in the 20th century that it made its mark in France. Today, 1.8 billion are sold every year. Some good, some bad. With Monsieur de France, discover the history of the croissant.
It's the most famous symbol of Paris and France: the Eiffel Tower. With Monsieur de France, discover 10 answers to the questions you've been asking about Monsieur Eiffel's Tower, and even answers to the questions you haven't!
The Arc de Triomphe, whose real name is "l'arc de triomphe de l'étoile", is at the same time one of the most beautiful monuments of Paris, the glory of France of the battles in the stone and a sacred place of meditation. Monsieur de France tells you its history and reveals some of its secrets.
Paris is also the Seine, and on the Seine there are bridges. Some of them are huge works of art and deserve, by themselves, a real discovery when visiting Paris. History, anecdotes... Whether you go under or over : here are the 5 most beautiful bridges of Paris and some surprises.