- History and visit the Place Saint-Sulpice in Paris
- Landmarks and attractions around Place Saint-Sulpice
- Transfer to the Place Saint-Sulpice
History and visit the Place Saint-Sulpice in Paris
The Place Saint-Sulpice, nestled in Paris’s sixth arrondissement, derives its name from an erstwhile seminary that once graced the square nestled amidst the rue Férou, rue Pot-de-Fer du Vieux-Colombier, and rue Petit-Bourbon. As for the name’s origin, a seminar was orchestrated by Abbé Jean-Jacques Pébrac, named Ollier, in Vaugirard from 1641, who later ascended as the parish priest of Saint-Sulpice.
In 1645, due to the burgeoning count of proselytes, he purchased an estate on rue du Vieux-Colombier. Consequently, he bifurcated it for two communities. Under an accord with the abbot of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, constructions burgeoned on both sites. The grand council noted letters patent on September 6, 1646, signaling the maiden construction’s endorsement, further recorded on December 30 at the accounts chamber, and then on December 2, 1650, in the parliament.
The minor seminar, christened as St. Joseph, initially was housed in one of the establishments on rue Férou in 1688, which was subsequently renamed Saint-Sulpice. On June 10, 1687, the Sulpicians relocated to another property higher up on rue Férou. A new community, named Sainte-Aure, materialized in 1694. By 1792, the Saint-Sulpice Seminary was disbanded and the edifices reverted to state properties.
A slew of archaic plans pertaining to the Place Saint-Sulpice surfaced on October 2, 1754, then on June 25 and October 19, 1806, followed by July 19, 1808, December 20, 1810, and February 24, 1811. A grand fountain, conceived by the architect Visconti, found its foundation here in 1838, standing tall till today, drawing admiration and attention.
Landmarks and attractions around Place Saint-Sulpice
Place Saint-Sulpice is surrounded by a rich tapestry of Parisian landmarks. One such notable monument is the Church of Saint-Sulpice, renowned for its grandeur and the intriguing gnomon astronomical instrument. The church, with its impressive facade, has played a significant role in various cultural works, including Victor Hugo’s “Les Misérables” and Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code”.
Adjacent to the square, the Luxembourg Gardens sprawl with their pristine beauty. They offer a serene environment for visitors to relax amidst statues, fountains, and lush greenery. The park also houses the French Senate, positioned in the exquisite Luxembourg Palace.
For literature aficionados, the Librairie Fontaine is a must-visit. This iconic bookstore is a treasure trove of books, both new and old. Furthermore, the vicinity teems with quaint cafes, patisseries, and boutiques, ensuring that visitors are never short of activities or experiences.
Transfer to the Place Saint-Sulpice
Place Saint-Sulpice sits at a distance of roughly 20 km from Orly Airport, approximately 39 km from Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport, and around 20 km from Beauvais Airport.