Medieval & Roman Paris

Description du service

The focus of this walk is still the wine history of Paris and its hidden vineyards, but without the tastings (other than one celebratory glass at the end). It is therefore ideal for families and children, or those who don't want to mix wine with their walking. Join us on a comprehensive overview of Medieval and Roman Paris, and discover how wine built Paris and how gothic architecture owes its existence to wine. Starting at the epicentre of the city on the Île de la Cité and Notre Dame, we learn the real beginning of the gothic style and how wine built and restored Notre Dame. The vineyard history of Paris is vast. An example is the forgotten Clos de Laas, one of the largest 'city' vineyards that belonged to the Abbaye Saint-Germain-des-Prés, which once flourished along the banks of the Seine from Saint-Michel to the rue Dauphine. Following side streets, we make our way to the Hotel Cluny and the Roman Baths and pay homage to Paris as the centre of learning in the Middle Ages, passing by La Sorbonne University, and the College de France. Our walk continues past the site where the vines of the Clos Bruneau once grew, and where the lost vineyards of the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève provided wines for the taverns of the Place de la Contrescarpe. The church of St-Etienne du Mont and the Pantheon have their own stories as does the vestige of the Philippe Auguste Wall and the rue Mouffetard. The Place de la Contrescarpe a popular drinking spot in the Middle Ages, is still crowded with a lively bar scene. From here we make our way to Les Arènes de Lutece, 2000 years of history and a hidden vineyard that brings the story of the Clos des Arènes, a vineyard that belonged to the Abbaye St-Victor in the 12th century, back to life. Our tour ends with a celebratory glass of organic sparkling wine. We require a minimum of 6 participants. Includes • A comprehensive overview of Medieval and Roman Paris • Wine history of the quarter • Background to viticulture and agriculture • Sparkling wine tasting Time & Cost • Approx 2 hours long • 45€ per person • Exclusive (max 20 history enthusiasts) • Relatively easy (about 1.5 kilometres of walking) Practical info • Start time 10:30am (or upon request min. 8 paying) • Meeting point is in front of Notre Dame, by the statue of Charlemagne • Children welcome • Minimum 6 participants (combined or private bookings)