Paris, the city of love and lights, is famous for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. However, there are two hidden islands in Paris that are not widely known but are equally charming.
These two islands are Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis. Let’s explore these islands in detail.
Île de la Cité
Île de la Cité is one of the two natural islands located in the Seine River that flows through Paris. It is considered to be the birthplace of Paris since it was here that a group of Celtic fishermen first settled in 3rd century BC. Today, it is home to some of the most famous landmarks in Paris such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle.
Notre-Dame Cathedral:
This gothic masterpiece is considered to be one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture. The construction of Notre-Dame began in 1163 and was completed almost two centuries later in 1345. It has witnessed many historic events such as Napoleon Bonaparte’s coronation and Joan of Arc’s beatification.
Sainte-Chapelle:
Sainte-Chapelle is a royal chapel built by King Louis IX in the 13th century to house his collection of holy relics including Christ’s crown of thorns. The chapel is famous for its stunning stained glass windows that depict scenes from both the Old and New Testaments.
Île Saint-Louis
Île Saint-Louis is a smaller island located just south of Île de la Cité. It was created in the 17th century during a period when Paris was expanding rapidly. The island was named after King Louis XIV who commissioned its development.
Hôtel Lambert:
Hôtel Lambert is a 17th-century mansion that was built for a wealthy French nobleman. It has been home to many famous residents including Voltaire, Chopin, and Balzac. The mansion is renowned for its lavish interiors and beautiful gardens.
Berthillon:
Berthillon is a famous ice cream shop located on Île Saint-Louis. It has been serving delicious ice creams and sorbets since 1954. Berthillon’s ice creams are made with natural ingredients and are available in a wide variety of flavors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the two islands of Paris – Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis – are hidden gems that offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. From the stunning gothic architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral to the delicious ice creams at Berthillon, these islands have something for everyone. So next time you’re in Paris, make sure to visit these two islands and discover their unique charm.