Alexandre-Gabriel Lemonnier, Jeweler to the Crown, once called the Pavillon Mansart home. During the Second Empire, his presence here contributed to making Place Vendôme a hub for jewelers. Lemonnier’s legacy includes crafting Empress Eugénie’s crown, a masterpiece now displayed at the Louvre Museum. Legend has it that during the tumultuous Commune period, the Pavillon Mansart became a sanctuary for precious jewels. They were hidden behind indoor shutters, some of which still grace the hotel suites today, protecting them from potential theft. By the late 19th century, the Pavillon Mansart transitioned into a hotel. However, the echoes of its past remain. Each room whispers stories of bygone eras: the grandeur of the 17th century, the opulence of the Second Empire, and the delicate touch of Victorian influence from the late 19th century. This rich tapestry of history infuses the Pavillon Mansart with a unique atmosphere. It’s a place where the past is not merely remembered, but vividly experienced.
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.