The King's Last Joust at Place des Vosges
Your adventure begins at the majestic Place des Vosges, once the site of the magnificent Palais des Tournelles. Here, in 1559, King Henri II, full of courage and royal spirit, decided to participate in a grand jousting tournament. Imagine the thunderous hooves and clashing lances! Tragically, a splinter from a broken wooden lance pierced his golden helmet and fatally wounded his eye. The heartbroken Queen, Catherine de' Medici, was so grief-stricken that she ordered the entire palace torn down. Today, you stand where this fateful event unfolded, a place forever marked by a king's final, brave joust.
Unearthing Paris' Ancient Defenses & Secret Passages
Journey deeper into the past as we seek out remnants of Paris' formidable defenses. Just off Rue Charlemagne, you'll discover the astonishing ruins of the Wall of Philippe Auguste. Built over 800 years ago, this massive stone barrier with its towering fortifications was designed to protect the city from invaders like the Vikings. Look closely at the huge, rough stones, still standing proudly beside modern buildings. Next, prepare for a thrilling game of hide-and-seek in the Village Saint-Paul's hidden stone maze. Wander through its interconnected courtyards, secret arches, and doorways. Can you imagine escaping the King's guards through these winding, medieval passages?
The Cannonball That Time Forgot at Hôtel de Sens
Conclude your medieval quest at the Hôtel de Sens, a stunning medieval mansion with an incredible secret. Cast your eyes upon its ancient front wall. During a tumultuous revolution in 1830, a heavy iron cannonball was fired with immense force, striking the building with such impact that it became firmly embedded in the stone itself! This isn't just a story; it's a real piece of history frozen in time. Challenge yourself to locate this remarkable cannonball – a true testament to Paris' revolutionary past. A hint: the year of the event is carved right next to it, helping you pinpoint this historical projectile.
