Place Saint-Michel is a square located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, France. It is near the Seine and is dominated by the Saint-Michel fountain, a monumental neo-Gothic work erected in 1860.
Place Saint-Michel is a lively meeting place, with many restaurants, cafes and shops. It is also a starting point for many tourist visits, such as a visit to the Conciergerie or a walk along the Seine.
Place Saint-Michel is also an important place in the history of Paris. During the French Revolution, it was the scene of many public executions, including that of Danton and Robespierre. Today, the square is a gathering place for events such as political demonstrations and outdoor concerts.
What to see in the Saint Michel district ?
The Saint-Michel fountain is a monumental fountain located in the Place Saint-Michel in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, France. It was designed by the architect Gabriel Davioud and the sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, who is also the author of the Statue of Liberty in New York.
The Saint-Michel fountain is an emblematic example of neo-Gothic art from the 19th century. It represents the Archangel Saint Michael slaying the dragon, symbol of evil. At the top of the fountain, St. Michael is depicted triumphant with a sword in hand, while the dragon writhes below him. The bronze sculptures also represent allegorical characters, such as the Genius of Art, the Genius of Science, Strength and Prudence.
The Saint-Michel fountain was inaugurated in 1860 and was restored in 1983. Today it is an iconic symbol of the city of Paris and is a popular tourist attraction.
Visit the Cluny Museum
5 minutes from the Saint Michel fountain, embark on a trip to the Middle Ages at the Cluny Museum, where you can admire works dating back to the 1st century AD! Many exhibitions take place regularly in addition to the permanent works of the museum.
Children can also be transported to the medieval universe thanks to themed workshops. They will be able to learn about the art of stained glass, calligraphy and take an interest in the coats of arms of the time.
Prices:
€5 full price and €9 during temporary exhibitions
Reduced price from 4€
Free every Sunday of the month
Check prices on official museum website
Opening hours: open every day except Tuesday, from 9:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.
Take a walk in the Jardin du Luxembourg.
If you want to take a stroll through the Saint-Michel district and enjoy the greenery that Paris has to offer, the Jardin du Luxembourg is the perfect place for it. With an area of 25 hectares where the Luxembourg Palace, an orangery, the Davioud pavilion and the Luxembourg Museum are gathered, you will have plenty to do.
Throughout the year, this public garden organizes many activities and events for everyone. Exhibitions are held regularly for lovers of sculptures, paintings or even photography. The photos are even displayed on the garden gates. Concerts are also held in the bandstand. Still on the cultural side, the Luxembourg Museum also offers exhibitions of great artists, to be reserved in advance.
The garden is very well equipped for children since it has a large playground and rides. For adults, there is the possibility of playing bridge, tennis, chess or the game of long palm.
Each year, a variety of activities are organized in the Jardin du Luxembourg as a new season approaches. Do your research online before you go to make sure you get the most out of everything on offer.
Take a walk in the Luxembourg Garden.
If you want to take a stroll through the Saint-Michel district and enjoy the greenery that Paris has to offer, the Jardin du Luxembourg is the perfect place for it. With an area of 25 hectares where the Luxembourg Palace, an orangery, the Davioud pavilion and the Luxembourg Museum are gathered, you will have plenty to do.
Throughout the year, this public garden organizes many activities and events for everyone. Exhibitions are held regularly for lovers of sculptures, paintings or even photography. The photos are even displayed on the garden gates. Concerts are also held in the bandstand. Still on the cultural side, the Luxembourg Museum also offers exhibitions of great artists, to be reserved in advance.
The garden is very well equipped for children since it has a large playground and rides. For adults, there is the possibility of playing bridge, tennis, chess or the game of long palm.
Each year, a variety of activities are organized in the Jardin du Luxembourg as a new season approaches. Do your research online before you go to make sure you get the most out of everything on offer.
