An exceptional weekend to discover a host of places that are usually closed to the public. For the 27th edition of what is known here as Les Journées Européennes du Patrimoine, not only is the theme Les Grands Hommes – like our hotel – but the Hôtels Paris Rive Gauche photo exhibition at the Théâtre de l’Odéon is part of the programme!

(c) RATP / Barinet

Pris isn’t lacking in great things to visit, but the third weekend of September is extra special, with even more choice, out of the ordinary places, embassies to visit, guided tours… your chance to see hidden splendour and places that have played their part in history.

The full list of venues will be available soon on the official site www.journeesdupatrimoine.culture.fr, where each page is translated but requires you to click ‘English’ every time (yawn). Some details have already been made public however.

For example, the RATP (our public transport company) is celebrating the 100th anniversary of one of the métro lines with special visits and an exhibition. You can also go and see some of their workshops, take a trip on one of the old omnibuses (or the coach used by the French rugby team!) and discover what tomorrow’s stations will look like. More details (in French) here (certain events do require advance booking).

Another essential stop for the weekend: our photo exhibition! At the Théâtre de l’Odéon (here, just near the Hôtel Jardin de l’Odéon) you’ll be able to go up to the terrace with its great view of the place de l’Odéon, see the room where last year’s 12 photographers are being exposed, and discover the exclusive, brand new commissioned work from Patrick Tournebœuf. And for the first time ever, the exhibition is expanded to other parts of the theatre, even the façade! It’s open from 11am – 6.30pm on both days, and as with all the venues taking part in the Journées Européennes du Patrimoine, it’s free.

For more information about the Journées Européennes du Patrimoine, check out the official site: www.journeesdupatrimoine.culture.fr

The blog (in French) is here: http://blog.journeesdupatrimoine.culture.fr

The Facebook page (in French too): here