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PARIS' BEST KEPT SECRET
The Hotel Dieu Hospital
by Stefanie Gabrych Fraser
Steps away from the Notre-Dame, smack in the
heart of tourist-filled, car-clogged Paris, lies a cool and serene
haven, known only to a few visitors, although it's well-known to most
Parisians. And it's where I'm going for lunch and, surprise, it's a
hospital.
Probably not your first choice for a typical
Paris meal, but the Hôtel Dieu, right across from Paris' most
famous cathedral, holds secrets of the kind that tourists cherish, once
stumbled upon.
As the oldest hospital in Paris, the history
of the Hôtel Dieu is steeped in legend. The Roman Emperor Julien
II is said to have built a residence over the remains of a Druid
temple. Centuries later, around 651, Saint Landry, the 28th Bishop of Paris, built a hospital at or near this site.
Ironically, the hospital was originally
built to confine rather than to cure the sick. Guards were posted at
its gates to keep those inside from getting out and infecting the city.
During the French Revolution, it was the hospital's proximity to
Notre-Dame that saved the cathedral from being burned to the ground by
the communards who feared the fire would endanger their hospitalized
wounded comrades.
Having survived fires, revolutions, wars,
and numerous reconstructions, the hospital today offers
state-of-the-art medical services. Although the hospital takes up a
city block, most tourists aren't even aware of it.
Once inside the reception area, turn right
and follow the hallway to an open courtyard where you'll find
beautifully tended gardens that invite you to sit and rest body and
spirit. Open during regular hospital hours, the gardens are a cool and
fragrant surprise at any time of the year.
Another little-known secret is the cafeteria
(yes, it's air-conditioned) that caters to those working and visiting
the hospital. If you are looking for an inexpensive, smoke-free eating
environment, the cafeteria serves up hot and cold dishes, sandwiches,
salads and drinks, most of which are available for only a few euros.
Useful Information
Hôtel Dieu
1, place du Parvis Notre-Dame
Paris 75004
Copyright (c) 2007 - www.paris-hotel-by-district.com CH. All rights reserved.
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