Imagine Paris was once the center of the world. The marquage méridienne whispers tales of a time when France held the key to measuring the world. Today, we embark on a treasure hunt. Our quest is to find the Arago medallions. These bronze markers trace the path of France’s prime meridian.
The marquage méridienne represents a line of longitude. This line once ran right through the heart of Paris. It was used to measure distance and time. Calculated in the 17th century the marquage méridienne was refined by astronomer François Arago in the 19th century.
But the marquage méridienne faced stiff competition. Other meridian lines vied for supremacy. Ultimately, Greenwich in London won. France accepted the Greenwich meridian in 1911.
Despite losing out to Greenwich, the marquage méridienne is not forgotten. Dutch artist Jan Dibbets honored Arago’s work. He installed 135 bronze medallions along the meridian line. These medallions stretch across Paris from north to south. They mark the era when Paris was the center of the world. Each medallion bears the name “Arago”. An N marks north and an S marks south. However, not all medallions are correctly aligned.
Our scavenger hunt begins. We seek out these bronze medallions embedded in the streets. Publicly, you can find them nestled in the city’s streets. The marquage méridienne starts at the Porte de Montmartre in the north. It runs to the Cité Université in the south. Many medallions have been stolen over the years. Yet, many remain waiting to be discovered.
For a quick win, head to the Palais Royale. In the Péristyle de Chartres look in front of a glass window. Here, you’ll spot your first medallion of the marquage méridienne. Then walk for sixty seconds toward the Café de Nemours. Five more medallions await you along the way. If you’re lucky enough to get a table at the Café Le Nemours. You might be sitting directly above the sixth medallion. It’s hidden beneath the tables.
Follow the golden discs toward the Louvre. The medallions guide you through the courtyard. You can even find more medallions inside the Louvre. Finish your walk across the Pont des Arts. Look to the right-hand side near a bouquiniste. You’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of the Seine.
The Paris Observatory played a crucial role in establishing the marquage méridienne. The second floor features a strip on the floor. It marks the exact location of the meridian line. The line is covered by plexiglass. It includes astronomical engravings and measurements.
So, keep your eyes peeled. As you explore Paris search for these subtle markers of history. The marquage méridienne serves as a reminder. It represents a time when Paris was at the center of the world. Let’s celebrate this unique piece of Parisian history.