Set behind L’Isle de la Cite is one of the most romantic spots in Paris, the tiny Isle Saint Louis. Of the two islands in the Seine – the Ile de la Cite is located to the west- The saint Louis retains the loveliness of the Paris Traditionel. It has remained in the heart of Parisians as well as every tourist who came upon it by accident. A tiny universe unto itself, shaded by trees and bordered by Seine-side-quais, and overhung with very old stone houses. Up until the 1800s it was reputed that some island residents never cross the bridges to go to Paris. Once you discover the island’s quiet charm, you may understand why. South of L’ile St Louis is the bohemian Latin Quarter, populated largely by Sorbonne students and Academics. Also the name Latin Quarter comes from the old university tradition of studying and speaking in Latin, a tradition that disappeared during the revolution. The university began as a theology school in the Middle Ages and later became the headquarters of the University of Paris. In 1968, the student revolution here had an explosive effect on French politics resulting in major reforms in the education system.
Four bridges link L’Isle Saint Louis and Rue St Louis-en-l’Isle runs the length of the island, bisecting it. Walk down the street and make a stop at the famous Berthillon, at No. 31- In both spring & Summer walk to the historic and opulent Hotel de Lauzun. If you head towards the west end you will discover Notre Dame, and cross the Pont Saint Louis. Just across the bridge on the left, is the Memorial de la Deportation, a moving modern crypt dedicated to the French People who died in Nazi Concentration Camps. If you head to the gardens to the left of Notre Dame, take the Pont au Double across the Seine to Square Rene Viviani. Behind the square you will discover the church Saint-Julien -le-Pauvre built at the same time as Notre Dame and the tiny and elegant streets of the Maubert District. If you turn left , then make the first right, and cross Rue Saint Jacques to the elegant church of Saint-Severin. On rue Saint Michel you will see a grandiose 1860 fountain created by Gabriel Davoud’s depicts St Michael slaying the dragon, is a popular meeting spot at the nerve center of the left bank. Also visit the Musee National du Moyen Age, the national museum of the Middle ages. Make a stop at the Pantheon where Napoleon is buried. On the far left corner of Place du Pantheon is Saint-Etienne-Du-Mont, a church whose facade is a mishmash of architectural styles. Go along rue Clovis to reach Rue du Cardinal Lemoine, which leads to Rue des Fosses Saint -Bernard, head back towards the Seine where you will find the Glass- Facade of L’institut du Monde Arabe, designed by Jean Nouvel, a center devoted to Arab culture.
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