Paris: New Itineraries for a Fresh View - Part I

Unveiling the Hidden Historical Sites of Paris

While the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Eiffel Tower are staples in any Parisian tour, the city's true charm often lies off the beaten path. Phil, a Senior Editor for a prominent Paris travel guide, invites you to explore the city's hidden historical treasures and quaint 19th-century neighborhoods. Imagine capturing the essence of medieval Paris through the lens of your camera at an inn established by the legendary alchemist Nicholas Flamel, or wandering through the streets where modern-day Parisians live and breathe the city's rich history.

The Lutece Arena: A Portal to Ancient Paris

Before the grandeur of modern Paris, there was Lutetia—the Roman name for the city founded by the Parisii tribe. The Lutece Arena, a 25,000 square-foot amphitheater built in the 2nd century A.D., could accommodate around 16,000 spectators. It was a venue for gladiator combats and other spectacles, some of which were rather gruesome, such as the persecution of early Christians.

The fall of the Roman Empire saw a decline in these events, and the arena was eventually demolished during barbarian invasions around 280 A.D. It was forgotten until its rediscovery in 1869, which sparked a series of preservation efforts. Notably, French novelist Victor Hugo played a role in its rehabilitation in 1883. Despite threats from real estate developers in the 1980s, local residents successfully protected the site.

To visit this ancient marvel, navigate to 47 Rue Monge using the Paris Metro, and step into the past where the echoes of history still resonate. For more information on the Lutece Arena, you can visit the official Paris tourist website here.

The Botanical Gardens and the Alpine Garden: A Green Oasis

The Jardin des Plantes, established in 1640 during the reign of King Louis XIV, is a sprawling 2.6 million square-foot botanical garden that was initially a Royal Garden of Medicinal Herbs. It comprises several smaller gardens, each with its own unique flora, including the Botanical School's plot with 4,500 plant species and the Rose Garden with 170 rose varieties.

The Alpine Garden, created in 1931, is a 40,000 square-foot space dedicated to mountain plant species from around the world, including the United States, China, Japan, and the Himalayas, totaling around 2,000 species. Notable is the 18th-century Pistachio tree among other historical trees like the 1636-planted acacia and a Lebanese cedar from 1734.

A visit to the Botanical Gardens is a serene escape from the city's hustle. To access this natural sanctuary, take the Metro to 'Gare d'Austerlitz' and head towards the Austerlitz Bridge to find the entrance at Place Valhubert. The gardens are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more details, check the Jardin des Plantes official website.

In the Words of Hemingway

As we conclude this first part of "Paris: New Itineraries for a Fresh View," we reflect on Ernest Hemingway's sentiment that Paris is a "moveable feast," a city that stays with you long after you've left its cobblestone streets. Stay tuned for Part II, where we'll continue to explore the city's enchanting lesser-known locales.

Remember, the next time you visit Paris, you'll be the one with the insider knowledge, leading the way to the city's secret spots that promise amazement and a fresh perspective on this timeless metropolis.