The French capital stands out for its interesting history and imposing monuments, many of which witnessed the most important moments of the city. One of the buildings that represents the changes that Paris has undergone is the Conciergerie, a former royal palace that became a prison, and later, a legend.
This palace is almost as old as the city itself, since its first foundations were built in the remote 10th century, when France was beginning to organize itself into a unified kingdom.
Located on the Ile de la Cité, which was the residence of the French royal family until the 14th century, the Conciergerie changed a lot in appearance over time. By 1793, this was already famous for being one of the great Gothic castles in Paris, although it had long since ceased to be the home of the Gallic kings.
However, the Conciergerie’s prominence in French history was just beginning, as this imposing place, with endless corridors and countless rooms, was turned into a prison during the French Revolution.
His most famous prisoner was Queen Marie Antoinette, who spent days in seclusion while waiting to be tried. Finally, the Conciergerie was the sovereign’s last refuge, because when her trial ended, she was sentenced to the guillotine.
The whole building itself is worth a visit but the must-see places are:
The Hall of the Men-at-Arms, a space used as a dining room for the guards and staff of the Royal Palace. It should be noted that it is the largest Gothic room in Europe.
The Hall of the Guards, where you can see the cell of Marie Antoinette reconstructed with furniture of the time. This site preserves traces of the time that the Conciergerie was a prison.
The Clock Tower, built in the 14th century, was used for defense and surveillance. Inside is the first public clock of Paris.
The Expiatory Chapel, fundamental to understand the emotional impact of the French Revolution. It was built in memory of Marie Antoinette because before being executed she was imprisoned in this place.
The Prisoners’ Cells, where the recreation of Marie Antoinette’s cell stands out.
The Women’s Courtyard, where women used to walk, meet and talk during their imprisonment.
The Hall of the Condemned, the last route for prisoners who were going to be guillotined.
The Conciergerie continues to occupy its privileged place on the exclusive Ile de la Cité, its neighbor is the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and its main façade continues to stare at the eternal flow of the River Seine.
Many centuries have passed since the French Revolution shook the entire region, yet the legacy it left is still present at the Conciergerie. So if you were looking for a place to take a trip back in time, this is the ideal place.
The Gothic design can be seen in every corner of the building, it has remained almost intact. In addition, The Conciergerie functions as a museum, and on the tour you can stroll through the old royal kitchens, the prisoner’s cells, the stables and the gendarmerie.
But not only the appearance of the Conciergerie is surprising, since the atmosphere that is perceived within the walls of the palace is also mysterious, revealing centuries and centuries of history, which over the years became myths and ghosts.
Beyond that, visiting the Conciergerie is an opportunity that every tourist should take advantage of. This enigmatic palace shows a completely different side to the dynamic modern Paris, but one that is worth knowing and discovering.
Although it is a historical monument of great cultural and historical relevance, the Conciergerie is not among the most visited attractions in Paris. Lines to enter are infrequent, the interior of the building is often clear, and there are generally no crowds. In addition, admission is free every Sunday.
If you want to walk the corridors that defined modern French history, discover what life was like in a former prison for royalty, and see Gothic architecture from a whole new perspective, feel free to include the Conciergerie on your must-see list. for sure you will love it.
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