Did you spot the cannonball? It’s embedded in the wall of the Hôtel de Sens. This isn’t just any building. The Hôtel de Sens is one of the few remaining medieval civil architecture examples in Paris. It stands as a proud reminder of a turbulent past.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine Paris under the rule of the Archbishop of Sens. Yes, you heard right. The Archbishop of Sens held significant power over Paris. This Hôtel de Sens was his private residence. It was built between 1475 and 1519. Tristan de Salazar, the Archbishop, initiated this construction. Sadly, he never got to live here.
Royalty graced this very spot. King Charles V used a building that stood here before. Later, Margaret of Valois, King Henri IV’s ex-wife, resided here briefly. A jealous rival murdered one of her lovers right outside the door.
Fast forward to 1790. The French Revolution. The Hôtel de Sens became national property. It was used as a factory, a laundry, and even a glass warehouse. Its glory seemed lost. In 1911, Paris acquired the building. It was recognized as a historic monument in 1912.
Now, about that cannonball. The year is 1830. Revolution is brewing. King Charles X’s July Ordinances sparked outrage. Protests turned into full-blown riots. On July 28th, a cannonball struck the Hôtel de Sens. It lodged itself in the facade. It remains there to this day. The date, 28 Juillet 1830, is inscribed below. A permanent scar of the Three Glorious Days.
Look closely. You can see it from the street. The cannonball serves as a constant reminder. It reminds us of the fight for freedom. It is a symbol of Parisian resilience.
Today, the Hôtel de Sens houses the Forney Library. The library specializes in art and design. Take a stroll through the courtyard. Admire the medieval architecture. The grand arched doorway is beautiful. The pointed Gothic windows are impressive. Consider visiting the library. Explore the exhibitions. Relax in the public garden behind the Hôtel de Sens.
The Hôtel de Sens is more than just a building. It is a time capsule. A symbol. A place where history whispers from every stone. The Hôtel de Sens is wearing its history.