Many people know the Latin Quarter in Paris. These narrow streets are so imbued with student romanticism and rebellion that it is simply impossible to pass by them! The quarter, which has no clear boundaries, is believed to be located around the Sorbonne University in the fifth and sixth arrondissements. Today we are going to take a walk through this interesting part of Paris, to look “behind the scenes” of modern student life, which is in full swing on the local streets.
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Before you begin your difficult journey, we suggest you have a good meal with delicious and aromatic pastries, which are presented in a huge assortment in the most famous bakery of the quarter. We especially recommend appreciating the taste of fresh croissants, which are the signature dish of local confectioners. Today there are at least 20 varieties to suit every taste. Each of them is original and ingenious in its own way, but Parisians are especially fond of the Pain au chocolat croissant, the filling of which consists of chocolate pieces.
Don't like croissants? No problem! After all, the local assortment of baked goods is not at all limited to these confectionery delights. Visitors will be offered to taste fresh chouquettes, eclairs, pies, mini-tarts and other sweets. For those tourists who do not have a weakness for sweet types of pastries, pastry chefs will offer pies with vegetable, fish or meat filling. Finding a bakery is not difficult, just follow the aroma or look for the bright purple sign. You can ask Parisians for directions, each of whom knows perfectly well where the famous La Parisienne is located.
Having had a good snack, we set off further. It is much more pleasant to visit historical and cultural attractions on a full stomach, one of which is the Pantheon. This is a real sample French classicism, in which they find their last refuge noble Frenchmen. It is worth noting that the architect J. Soufflot, who worked on the creation of a brilliant masterpiece, drew inspiration from a similar structure located in Rome. Initially, the Pantheon was assigned the role of a church, which Louis XV promised to build if the gods had mercy on him and saved him from a serious illness. Since during the construction process the recovered king could not avoid the sad fate of being overthrown, the new government decided to place the building at the disposal of the great French who were leaving this mortal coil, turning it into a real tomb.
To visit the Latin Quarter and not visit the world-famous Sorbonne University is an unspeakable audacity! This grandiose architectural monument received its name in honor of one of the people closest to King Louis IX - the theologian Robert de Sorbon. It was with his goodwill that the first theological college was organized in Paris (in the 13th century), which was destined to survive to this day and become part of the so-called. University of Paris. Before the adoption of the law that separated religion and state (1905), the façade of the university belonged to the chapel of St. Ursula of the Sorbonne. Today, this building is used to receive special guests and host numerous exhibitions.
If you contact the official historical sources, it will not be difficult to find out that the origin of the name of the quarter is connected with the language in which they taught at the universities located here. Today the quarter does not even have clear administrative boundaries, so it is difficult to accurately determine the list of streets and objects that are part of it. It is reliably known that the quarter includes the fifth arrondissement and part of the sixth arrondissement of Paris. And in addition to the Sorbonne already known to us, several more higher education institutions are located on its territory. educational institutions– Ecole Normale Supérieure, National School of Mining, Curie University and others. By the way, in the narrow streets everything has been created for students the necessary conditions for a comfortable time. There are many cozy cafes and bistros that serve delicious dishes. French cuisine By affordable prices, as well as many bookstores that help students master the difficult aspects of their chosen profession.
Next we will proceed to the Luxembourg Gardens, which is included in the list of the most famous attractions of Paris. total area The park complex exceeds 26 hectares. In addition to the grandiose “green zone”, there is an equally impressive architectural landmark of the city - the Luxembourg Palace. Nowadays, meetings of the Senate (this is the second chamber of the French parliament) are held within its walls. There was also a place here for the head of the Senate. His official residence is considered to be the “Small Palace”. Interestingly, the Luxembourg Gardens itself retained the planning that was created back in the 17th century! The flower beds and terraces are arranged in the same order and are kept in the same classic style. Only a few decades later, a more modern park area, designed in a strict English style, appeared in the southeastern part of the complex.
Don't pass by another famous cafe, which is called Les Deux Magots. Surprisingly, the cafe owes its name to something not significant at all. historical events or famous Parisians, but small figurines representing Chinese traders. Translated from French, “Mago” is precisely a grotesque figurine. Until recently, the publication of the magazine of the same name was located at this address, the first issue of which fell exactly in the year of the defeat of Emperor Napoleon at Borodino.
Another bright cafe is located at the intersection of Boulevard Saint-Germain and Avenue Saint-Benoit, which are located in the sixth arrondissement. For the first time, visitors found themselves within its walls back in 1887, and since then the cozy establishment has become a favorite meeting place for representatives of the intellectual class, as well as a diverse creative public. As often happens, the cafe got its name in honor of the goddess Flora, whose statue is located across the street from the entrance to the establishment. Upon entering the cafe, visitors seem to be transported back several decades. This is facilitated by the interior of the halls, preserved from the Second World War. Initially, the well-known “Parisian Evenings” took place in the cafe, and a little later representatives of the ultra-right gathered within its walls political movements. If walls could talk, they would tell a lot interesting stories and helped to reveal not a single bold plan of opponents of the political regime that existed at that time.
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The central Parisian district on the left bank of the Seine is one of the favorite places of Parisians and tourists. Students settled here and nobles built palaces. Ancient parks and cafes, famous sights, various shops, the best gastronomic market in Paris...
Luxembourg Gardens
Luxembourg Park, together with the Marco Polo Garden adjacent to it on the south side (Jardin des Grands Explorateurs), is one of the most beloved and legendary vacation spots of Parisians. It has its own ponds, numerous sculptures and monuments, famous fountains. Art exhibitions take place here. There is a cafe where you can have a snack.
Nearest metro, RER: Odeon (Line 4, 10), Notre-Dame-des-Champs (Line 12), Luxembourg (RER B)
Palace of Marie de' Medici in the Luxembourg Gardens
The palace, considered an architectural masterpiece, was built during the Renaissance for Queen Marie de' Medici according to her wishes and to suit her elegant tastes. Today part of the premises is occupied by the Museum Luxembourg Palace(Musee du Luxembourg), and the other - the French Senate.
Address: 19 rue de Vaugirard, 6th arrondissement.
Official website of the museum: www.museeduluxembourg.fr
Sorbonne
Another visiting card of the Latin Quarter is the famous Sorbonne University - one of the oldest in Europe. This is a very popular place among tourists - it is they, and not the students, who “occupy” almost all the places in the cafes along the perimeter of Sorbonne Plaza. Students have to move to dark, smoky cafes a little further away. A visit to the university itself is possible for tourists only in groups of 10-30 people with pre-order(by phone +33 0 140 462 349 or through travel agencies).
Address: 5-19 rue de la Sorbonne, 5th arrondissement
Nearest metro, RER: Cluny la Sorbonne, Luxembourg (RER B) Place Monge
Why is it called the Latin Quarter?- In the Middle Ages, education at universities was conducted in Latin, and students from different countries, who studied at the Sorbonne and lived in this quarter nearby, communicated in Latin.
Cafe (brasserie) La Closerie des Lilas
The place is famous for the fact that Hemingway, the great French poet Guillaume Apollinaire and other famous personalities visited here; and since then little has changed here. The owners are true to traditions. Interior in retro style. Eat open area, glass veranda and two floors inside the building.
Address: 171 Boulevard de Montparnasse, 6th arrondissement (6e arrondissement).
Nearest metro, RER: Vavin (Line 4), Port Royal (RER B)
Rue Mouffetard
The pedestrian Rue Mouffetard is one of the busiest and most charming shopping streets in Paris. Here you can find dozens of artisan bakeries, pastry shops, shops selling cheese and other traditional products, as well as vegetables and fruits. Many of these establishments date back to the Middle Ages. This is where the best market in Paris is (open on Sundays.)
Nearest metro: Place Monge or Censier-Daubenton (Line 7 - both stations)
Pantheon
The majestic neoclassical building is the mausoleum where many of France's great minds are buried. Interior decorated with sculptures, and there are paintings on the walls in some places outside.
Address: Place de la Pantheon, 5th arrondissement
Metro, RER: Cluny la Sorbonne, Luxembourg (RER B)
Latin Quarter - oldest district French capital, which has long gained fame as a college town. Despite the fact that there are several universities in the quarter, including the main building of the famous Sorbonne, students themselves rarely live in this area due to high prices for housing and food. The architectural features of the area are narrow streets, old buildings and a pleasant creative atmosphere. However, one should not think that Latin Quarter It is interesting only to students; in addition to universities, there are many attractions, expensive restaurants, modest bistros, as well as many shops and souvenir shops.
The area received its unusual name not by chance; it is due to the fact that teaching at the Sorbonne was carried out in this language. Moreover, Latin was an international language at that time, so after Paris, neighborhoods of the same name appeared in many other European cities.
The appearance of the famous student town is associated with the Middle Ages, the time when a famous university was opened and the area became popular among the intelligentsia. Initially, the quarter was represented exclusively by the Sorbonne and its environs, but over time it expanded to the territory of several other large universities, including: Pierre and Marie Curie University, University 2, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris School of Mining.
Thanks to its long history, it has accumulated in its arsenal many remarkable places that are visited with pleasure not only by tourists, but also by local residents. When walking in this area you should pay attention Special attention to the following attractions:
1) Sorbonne University is one of the oldest educational institutions France, formed in 1215. Initially, only cultural and artistic figures were educated within its walls; today, the institution also hosts faculties of management, economics, law and other sciences. A walk through the Sorbonne can be interesting in terms of getting acquainted with the architecture of the building, which amazes with the beauty of its facade and interior decoration.
2) Place Saint-Michel is a wonderful boulevard built in the 19th century. On its territory there are many interesting Parisian attractions: the fountain of the same name, a cinema, the Church of Saint-Severin, the Palace of Justice, where the French Parliament has been sitting for many years, the Saint-Michel Bridge, which has long attracted couples in love, and other cultural monuments.
3) The Pantheon is the burial place of many legendary Frenchmen. It is a beautiful old building, designed in the style of French classicism. A legendary phrase is embossed on its façade, which means: “Grateful homeland to great people.” Previously, on the site of the Pantheon there was old church Saint Genevieve.
Within the walls of this tomb lie the remains of: Victor Hugo, Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Emile Zola, Alexandre Dumas.
4) – a large Parisian park with beautiful lawns correct geometric shapes, beautiful flower beds and old trees. On its territory there is the famous palace of the same name, the legendary Medici fountain, as well as the “Star Alley”.
5) The Museum of the Middle Ages is a wonderful metropolitan museum, striking with the beauty of its building and the uniqueness of its exhibits. It was built in the 15th century, and its exhibition allows you to discover the world of the real Middle Ages. The museum presents: wonderful stained glass windows, sculptures, tapestries, objects from Ivory and much more.
The Latin Quarter of Paris is located in the fifth arrondissement of the romantic capital on the left bank of the Seine, although it does not have exact boundaries. You can get to the old district by metro line 10 and get off at Cluny-la-Sorbonne station. You can also do a scenic walking route from the Ile de la Cité or from the beginning of Place Saint-Michel to the Sorbonne.
) there are also many popular shops, restaurants, cafes and wine bars.
The Latin Quarter is famous for its world famous sights, as well as narrow ancient streets, bistros, bookstores and cozy cafes.
Thanks to the large number of tourist sites such as Pantheon , Church of Val-de-Grâce , Place Saint Michel And Museum of the Middle Ages The Latin Quarter is a favorite destination for tourists. Also Latin Quarter is famous for the relative cheapness of its restaurants and cafe, of course, by the standards of the French capital.
1). Restaurant Les 5 Saveurs d'Anada– Spacious, informal restaurant offering delicious vegetarian food. Good are the salads (€6.50) and inventive meat-replacement dishes (€12), such as tofu soufflé or seitan with celery and basil. Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 12.00-14.30 and 19.30-22.30. Restaurant address: 72 rue du Cardinal-Lemoine metro station Cardinal-Lemoine;
2). Restaurant L'atelier Maitre Albert– Another establishment of the famous Guy Savoy is decorated like a medieval castle. Choose from the signature grilled meats or go for a lighter dish like pan-seared sea bass with potato gratin or mussels on celeriac mousse with lentil jelly. Daily menu (23 euros), twice as expensive with a card. Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 12.00-14.30 and 19.00-23.00. Restaurant address: 1 rue Maitre Albert, Maubert-Mutualite metro station;
3). Bistro Au Bistrot de la Sorbonne– Traditional French and very high quality North African food served to patrons and students in a charming setting. Bistro address: 4 rue des Touiller, RER station Luxembourg;
4). Brasserie Balzar– Classic beer hall with high ceilings- a haven for the literary intelligentsia of the Latin Quarter. There is not a trace of vulgar luxury in the interior, but it is truly Parisian. However, if you're unlucky, a crowd of tourists can spoil the experience. To order about 35 euros. Brasserie address: 49 rue des Ecoles, Maubert-Mutualite metro station;
5). Restaurant Le Buisson Ardent– The bright, traditionally decorated dining room serves first-class food. Daytime menu 15 euros, evening 29 euros. A table must be reserved in advance. Opening hours: closed during the day on Saturdays and Sundays. Restaurant address: 25 rue Jussieu, Jussieu metro station;
6). Bistro Chez Rene– The big old bistro offers classic cuisine: rooster in wine and Burgundy meat. Daily menu 28 euros with wine. In the evening, expect to pay from 40 euros. Opening hours: Tuesday-Saturday 12.15-14.15 and 19.45-22.30. Bistro address: 14 bd St-Germain, cnr rue du Cardinal-Lemoine, Maubert-Mutualite metro station;
7). Restaurant Coco de Mer– In a colorful restaurant located in the south-eastern end of the 5th arrondissement, palm trees (artificial), the music of this happy island and perhaps the best cuisine in the city await you Indian Ocean. Fresh fish is delivered daily from Seychelles. Try the sea devil with garlic and magic fruit sauce (20 euros). Great curries and vanilla sauce. A full lunch will cost 30 euros. Opening hours: Monday 7.30-0.00, Tuesday-Saturday 12.00-15.00 and 19.30-0.00. Restaurant address: 34 bd Saint-Marcel, metro Saint-Marcel;
8). Restaurant Les Degres de Notre-Dame– High-quality, inexpensive and hearty French food. Good daily menu for 12.50 euros. There is a cozy veranda. Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 7.00-0.00. Restaurant address: 10 rue des Grands Degres, Maubert-Mutualite metro station;
9). Restaurant L'Ecurie– Occupying a former stable in a charming location on St. Genevieve Hill, the family-run restaurant is always full. There are also places on the veranda and in the cellar. It is worth booking a table in advance. Excellent fried meat without any fuss. Grilled steak with potatoes costs less than 15 euros, simple appetizers and desserts around 5 euros. Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 12.00-15.00 and 19.00-00, Sunday 7.00-0.00. Restaurant address: 58 rue de la Montagne Ste-Genevieve, metro station Maubert-Mutualite/Cardinal-Lemoine;
10). Brasserie Les Fontaines– 9 rue Soufflot At first glance, the interior of this beer does not bode well, but it is pleasant and very cozy place. Excellent cuisine, good French dishes: fish, meat and game in season. The main course costs 11-18 euros. Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 12.00-15.00 and 19.30-23.00. Beer address: RER Luxembourg station;
11). Restaurant Le Grenier de Notre-Dame– Vegetarian food, including classic French dishes made with tofu, as well as something unique like cauliflower cheese. Desk lamp colored glass creates a relaxing atmosphere on the ground floor of the internet cafe. Menu for 17.50 euros (15 euros in the afternoon). Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 12.00-23.30, Sunday 12.00-15.00. Restaurant address: 18 rue de la Bucherie, Maubert-Mutualite metro station;
12). – Excellent homemade pasta with vegetables of all kinds, extremely beautifully presented dishes. A hearty meal does not cost more than 20 euros. Another branch is located at 33 bd Arago (Gobelins metro station, closed on Sundays). Opening hours: daily 12.00-14.30 and 19.00-23.00. Restaurant address: 4 rue Lacepede, Jussieu metro station;
The Latin Quarter is considered one of the city's brightest attractions, the most fun, bohemian and interesting area of Paris. It is famous for its original buildings, narrow streets, parks, palaces, small cafes and bookstores. Within the quarter there are several of the most visited tourist sites - the Baths of Cluny, the Luxembourg Gardens and the Pantheon located on the top of the hill of Saint Genevieve.
Here is the oldest restaurant in the city, Le Procope, which was opened at the end of the 17th century (13 rue de l’Ancienne Comédie). During the Renaissance it was famous Literary Cafe, where the bohemian elite liked to gather. Voltaire, Jean Jacques Rousseau, Denis Diderot, Balzac, George Sand, Hugo and other famous writers visited Prokop. The establishment is open daily from 11.30 to midnight.
On the streets of the Latin Quarter, cozy, stylishly decorated cafes line one after another, and near each one you can see the owner or employee greeting guests. They invite tourists passing by no worse than in a real Arab bazaar.
The establishments of the Latin Quarter boast excellent cuisine. Almost each of them has a menu of the day - “menu del jour”. This is a set lunch that includes an appetizer, a choice of first or second course, dessert and even a glass of wine. However, in some restaurants you need to order wine separately. Such a lunch costs quite a budget - from 10 to 15 euros. In addition, the popular fast food gyros is sold on every corner. This is a hearty Greek appetizer similar to shawarma.
The Latin Quarter of Paris is located on the left bank of the Seine, within the 5th and 6th administrative quarters of the city. It is very convenient to get here by public transport. Charles de Gaulle Airport is a 40-minute metro ride and Orly Airport is a 30-minute metro ride.
You can get to the central part of the Latin Quarter by metro line 10 to the Cluny-la-Sorbonne station. In addition, the left bank of the Seine can be reached on foot from Notre Dame Cathedral. To do this, you just need to cross the river on any of the bridges.
