The Fascinating Origin of the Word “Baboon”: An Unexpected Historical Revenge
The natural sciences are filled with surprising anecdotes. Some stories behind the names of familiar species hide tales of rivalry, …
History
Jeanne de Clisson: The “Bloody Widow” Who Defied the King of France
The waves of the Atlantic relentlessly crashed against the cliffs of Brittany. The cold offshore wind carried with it promises …
Gibet de Montfaucon: The Forgotten Story of Paris’ Grim Monument
Stand for a moment on the pavement near Place du Colonel Fabien in northeastern Paris. The hum of city life …
Why Did the People of Strasbourg Dance Themselves to Death in 1518?
In the sweltering heat of the summer of 1518, Strasbourg, a city within the Holy Roman Empire, witnessed an unsettling …
Inhabited Bridges of Medieval Paris: Life Above the Seine
In medieval Paris, bridges were more than simple river crossings — they were thriving urban centers. These structures not only …
Around the Notre-Dame: What Did Paris Look Like in the 15th Century?
The 15th century — an age of upheaval and uncertainty. Paris, the largest city in France, stands at a historical …
The Architectural Mystery of Notre-Dame: How Light Replaced Walls
Notre-Dame de Paris, the jewel of Gothic architecture, astonishes not only with its grandeur but also with its unique construction. …
The Strangest Royal Wedding in French History: Discover the Incredible Ceremony of 1572
Paris, August 18, 1572. The bells of Notre-Dame ring out for a royal wedding, but nothing goes as expected. On …
What Stood on the Site of Notre-Dame Before the Iconic Cathedral?
At the heart of the Île de la Cité, where Notre-Dame de Paris now stands in Gothic splendor, lies a …
Don’t Miss These Events: Full Schedule for Notre-Dame’s Reopening
After years of monumental restoration work, Notre-Dame de Paris is finally reopening its doors. This eagerly awaited event will be …