Why Is It Called Paris Saint-Germain?

By Robert Palmer

Have you ever wondered why one of the most popular football clubs in the world is called Paris Saint-Germain? It’s a question that many people ask, especially those who are not familiar with the history of French football. In this article, we will explore the origins of the name and what it means for the team.

What is Paris Saint-Germain?

Before we dive into the history of the name, let’s first understand what Paris Saint-Germain is. Paris Saint-Germain Football Club, commonly referred to as PSG, is a professional football club based in Paris, France. The club was founded in 1970 and plays its home games at Parc des Princes stadium.

The Origins of the Name

The name “Paris Saint-Germain” has its roots in French history and culture. “Paris” is obviously named after the capital city of France where the club is located. “Saint-Germain” refers to a neighborhood in Paris located on the west bank of the Seine River.

But where does “Saint-Germain” come from? The name originates from an abbey that was founded in 558 AD by King Childebert I on what was then known as Montagne Sainte-Geneviève (Mount St. Genevieve). The abbey was dedicated to St. Germain, a bishop who had been martyred in 576 AD.

Over time, the abbey became an important center for learning and culture in France. It housed a library that contained over 40,000 volumes and attracted scholars from all over Europe. The area around the abbey also became known for its artistic and intellectual community.

The Connection to Football

So how does this relate to football? In 1904, a group of students from Lycée Saint-Louis, a school located near the abbey, founded a football club called “Club Athlétique Saint-Germain.” The club played its games in the nearby Parc des Princes stadium and quickly became a popular team in Paris.

Fast forward to 1970, and Paris Saint-Germain Football Club was founded. The new team adopted the name “Paris Saint-Germain” as a nod to the neighborhood’s rich history and the legacy of the original Club Athlétique Saint-Germain.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Paris Saint-Germain is named after a neighborhood in Paris that has a rich history dating back over a thousand years. The name is also connected to one of the city’s original football clubs that played in the area. Today, PSG is one of the most successful football clubs in France and has become a global brand with fans all over the world.