Les Passages Couverts, Musée Picasso, La Pagode: Exploring the Hidden Gems of Paris
Paris is a city with a rich history and a vibrant culture. While many visitors flock to the famous landmarks and tourist attractions, there are also hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Three such gems are Les Passages Couverts, Musée Picasso, and La Pagode – each with their own unique history and charm.
Les Passages Couverts
Les Passages Couverts are a series of covered walkways that were built in the early 19th century to protect shoppers from the elements. Today, these passages offer a glimpse into the past, with their ornate architecture and quaint shops. One of the most famous passages is the Galerie Vivienne, which features mosaic floors, glass ceilings, and elegant boutiques selling everything from antique books to gourmet chocolates.
Musée Picasso
The Musée Picasso is home to one of the largest collections of Picasso’s work in the world. The museum is housed in the Hôtel Salé, a grand 17th-century mansion that was once a private residence. Visitors can admire Picasso’s paintings, sculptures, and drawings, as well as personal artifacts such as his notebooks and letters. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions featuring other artists, making it a must-visit for art lovers.
La Pagode
La Pagode is a stunning cinema located in the heart of Paris. The building was originally constructed in 1896 as a gift from the owner of Le Bon Marché department store to his wife. It was designed to resemble a Japanese pagoda and features exquisite gardens and a tea room. Today, La Pagode is a popular destination for movie lovers, showing both classic and contemporary films in an intimate and unique setting.
What connects these three hidden gems is their ability to transport visitors to another time and place. Les Passages Couverts offer a glimpse into 19th-century Paris, Musée Picasso allows visitors to immerse themselves in the world of one of the greatest artists of the 20th century, and La Pagode offers a taste of exoticism and escapism in the heart of the city.
So next time you’re in Paris, be sure to venture off the beaten path and discover these hidden gems for yourself. Who knows what other treasures you might find along the way?
Sources:
– “Les Passages Couverts.” Paris Tourist Office, en.parisinfo.com/paris-museum-monument/71181/Les-passage-couverts.
– “Musée National Picasso-Paris.” Musée National Picasso-Paris, www.museepicassoparis.fr/en/home/.
– “La Pagode.” La Pagode, www.lapagode-paris.com/.