“A triumphal arch, right in the heart of Paris?” you might ask, surprised. Yes, right here before you stands the Porte Saint-Martin, a hidden gem amongst the bustling streets. Unlike its grander cousin, the Arc de Triomphe, the Porte Saint-Martin whispers tales of a different era, a time when Louis XIV, the Sun King, reigned supreme. Erected in 1674, this arch doesn’t celebrate a victory over a foreign nation. Instead, it proclaims the King’s triumphs on the Rhine and in Franche-Comté. Imagine the pomp and ceremony as Louis XIV, himself, ordered its construction, a proud monument to his power. Look closely at the intricate carvings adorning the arch. They depict dramatic scenes: the capture of Limbourg, the defeat of the Germans, the breaking of the Triple Alliance, and the capture of Besançon. Each panel, a testament to the Sun King’s military prowess. Interestingly, while the inscription above boasts of Louis XIV’s victories, it was actually the City of Paris that footed the bill for this grand monument. A subtle reminder, perhaps, that even the Sun King relied on the support of his people. So, as you stand before the Porte Saint-Martin, let your imagination transport you back to the 17th century, a time of grandeur, ambition, and the undeniable allure of Paris.
Église Notre-Dame de l’Air
Beneath what appears to be a simple stone and wood structure lies a history interwoven with faith aviation and community.