In This Issue of The Paris Love Letter

• Flâneries in Paris: A Hidden History Walk: Explore the Medieval Streets of the Marais

• Café Culture: Parisian Escape: Riverside Dining at Les Maquereaux Rive Droite

• Featured French Song: Joyce Jonathan, Vianney - Les filles d’aujourd'hui

FOUND IN PARIS
Fun & Useful Links

➡️ The 83 best hotels in Paris in just about every district - From TimeOut: However swish you want to go, the best hotels in Paris can deliver. From cheap to boutique to five-star, these are our top picks.

➡️ Hold the French Fries! Paris Olympics Chart a New Gastronomic Course - From the NYT: The environment will come first as France tries to revitalize the global image of its cuisine.

➡️ Winemaking in Paris is back, and you can discover its history in Montmartre - From National Geographic: Winemaking in Paris is back, and tours in Montmartre can introduce travelers to the origins of the capital’s vineyard industry.

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FLANERIES IN PARIS
A Hidden History Walk: Explore the Medieval Streets of the Marais

Paris, often dubbed the City of Light, is rich in history and culture. The Marais district stands out among its many neighborhoods, offering a unique glimpse into the city's medieval past. As you journey through its narrow, winding streets, you can almost hear the echoes of centuries past. Let’s take a virtual walk through the Marais and uncover its hidden gems and historical remnants.

Starting Point: Church of Saint-Gervais

Our stroll begins at the Church of Saint-Gervais, located at 13 Rue des Barres. This church has stood since the 13th century and displays a striking Gothic facade. It has an impressive collection of stained glass windows and a serene, contemplative atmosphere, perfect for reflecting on the centuries of history we’re about to explore.

Hôtel de Sens

A short walk brings us to the Hôtel de Sens, at 7 Rue des Nonnains d'Hyères. This Gothic mansion, built between 1475 and 1507, now serves as a public library. Its turrets, pointed arches, and fortified appearance starkly remind us of a time when Paris was a much smaller, walled city. Take a moment to appreciate the cannonball lodged in its facade, a remnant of the French Revolution.

Philippe Auguste Wall

Next, we visit the remnants of the Philippe Auguste Wall, visible from 9 Rue Charlemagne. This medieval wall, constructed in the early 13th century by King Philippe Auguste, was designed to protect Paris from invasions. The well-preserved section at Rue Charlemagne offers a tangible connection to the city's medieval defenses and is a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts.

Village Saint-Paul

Just around the corner, we venture into the Village Saint-Paul at 5c Rue Charlemagne. This area is a hidden gem within the Marais, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets. In medieval times, it was home to craftsmen and merchants. Today, you can explore antique shops, art galleries, and quaint cafés, all nestled within these historic courtyards.

Fun Fact: Village Saint-Paul didn’t have plumbing until the 1970s!

Place des Vosges

As we continue our walk, we arrive at the stunning Place des Vosges, located at Pl. des Vosges. This is the oldest planned square in Paris, built by Henri IV in the early 17th century. Its symmetrical design and elegant arcades have made it a model for city squares across Europe. However, its history predates this transformation, as it was once the site of the Hôtel des Tournelles, a medieval palace.

Musée Carnavalet

Our next stop is the Musée Carnavalet at 23 Rue de Sévigné, dedicated to the history of Paris. Housed in two historic mansions, including the Renaissance-era Hôtel Carnavalet, the museum offers a deep dive into the city's past, with extensive exhibits on medieval Paris. It's the perfect place to gain a broader understanding of the Marais' rich history.

Rue des Francs-Bourgeois

Continuing on, we walk down Rue des Francs-Bourgeois. This street is lined with beautifully preserved Renaissance mansions, many of which now house museums and boutiques. However, its history stretches back to the medieval period when it was a bustling thoroughfare in the heart of Paris.

Rue des Rosiers

Our final stop is Rue des Rosiers, often called "the falafel street," located in the heart of the Jewish quarter at 75004 Paris. This vibrant street is rich with history and culture, dating back to the medieval period when Jewish communities began settling here. Today, it is famous for its numerous falafel shops and Middle Eastern eateries, making it a culinary hotspot for both locals and tourists. While exploring, be sure to visit the 13th-century Synagogue de la rue Pavée, designed by the famous Art Nouveau architect Hector Guimard. The combination of historical significance and delicious cuisine makes Rue des Rosiers a must-visit destination.

The Marais district is a living museum. Every corner holds a story from the past. As we’ve seen, its medieval streets are filled with hidden gems and historical remnants that transport us back in time. Whether you're planning a future trip to Paris or simply dreaming of the city from afar, a virtual walk through the Marais offers a glimpse into its legacy. Next time you find yourself in Paris, make sure to wander through the Marais and let its history unfold before you.

Google Maps Walking Tour Path:

CAFE CULTURE
Parisian Escape: Riverside Dining at Les Maquereaux Rive Droite

Living in Paris has perks, but sometimes you crave a fresh experience. Enter Les Maquereaux Rive Droite, a unique riverside restaurant on a floating barge along the Seine. We recently treated ourselves to lunch there on a beautiful, sunny day.

The charm starts before you step aboard. Situated near Île Saint-Louis by the Parc Rives de Seine, Les Maquereaux Rive Droite promises a dining journey with a view. The ingenious layout blends indoor and outdoor seating, with one deck boasting an open roof for sunny days. Light-filled spaces and nautical accents create a relaxed, riverside vibe right in the heart of the city.

The real magic unfolds on the expansive outdoor terrace. Lush greenery shades the tables while the Seine unfolds before you, offering a breathtaking panorama. Iconic landmarks like Île Saint-Louis and the Parc Rives de Seine create a picture-perfect Parisian backdrop.

Our menu choices: The Fish & Chips—a classic with a Parisian twist—featured perfectly cooked fish in golden, crispy batter. The tartar sauce added a delightful tang. Next, we savored the Creamy Burrata from Puglia, a delicious example of the restaurant's commitment to fresh ingredients. Finally, the Salted Butter Chocolate Lava Cake provided the perfect sweet ending with its warm, gooey center and rich chocolate flavor balanced by a hint of salt.

This gem is more than just a restaurant; it offers tranquility amidst the Parisian bustle. It’s an opportunity to savor delicious food while immersing yourself in the city's natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening or a memorable family outing, Les Maquereaux Rive Droite promises a truly extraordinary dining adventure. So, ditch the usual routine and explore this riverside oasis. You won't be disappointed.

Paris, Unscripted: Snaps of Daily Wanderings

1. Port des Célestins, Quai de l'Hôtel de ville (top left)

2. View of the July Column at Bastille (top right)

3. View from Promenade plantée René-Dumont (bottom left)

4. View of Île Saint-Louis (bottom right)

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
Joyce Jonathan, Vianney - Les filles d’aujourd'hui

In their duet, "Les filles d'aujourd'hui," French pop singers Joyce Jonathan and Vianney offer a look at the complexities of modern dating. The song explores the frustrations and hesitations experienced by both men and women in navigating today's romantic landscape. It's a relatable and fun listen with catchy melodies and witty lyrics.