DISCOVER THE MIDDLE AGES - A CAPITAL UNDER CONSTRUCTION

A booming Paris

From the IXᵉ century onwards, Paris asserted itself as the capital of the kingdom, a religious, intellectual and economic centre. The city expanded, organised itself and gradually shaped its medieval identity.

Why take an interest?

The Middle Ages were the period when Paris was taking shape as a capital city. It was a time of major building projects, founding institutions and a cultural boom that attracted students, merchants and craftsmen from all over Europe.

A brief history and anecdotes

Construction of Notre-Dame Cathedral began in the XIIᵉ century and spanned almost two centuries. The first stone bridges replaced the wooden footbridges and became real shopping streets. The Sorbonne, founded in the XIIIᵉ century, established itself as an intellectual beacon. But the city was also dense, noisy and unhealthy, where faith and misery rubbed shoulders.

Medieval legacies visible today

- Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral
- Remains of the walls built by Philippe Auguste
- Sorbonne College
- Medieval streets of the Marais and Ile de la Cité

Tips for further study

- Visit the Musée de Cluny for its medieval collections
- Explore Gothic churches such as Saint-Séverin or Saint-Germain-des-Prés
- Follow the traces of the ancient ramparts still visible in the town

Through the audio guide

🎧 Listen to our immersive account of medieval Paris, between faith, trade and daily life, on History Guide City Paris!
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