Conciergerie, A Palace Turned Prison with Royal Mystique
2 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris
3.8
Introduction
The Conciergerie, a prison affiliated with the Paris Court of Justice, was originally a royal palace built in the 14th century and served as the residence of French kings. Over the centuries, it became the center of national power for activities such as court meetings and administrative management. In the 14th century, Philip IV transformed the palace into a symbol of royal power, and it became the headquarters of the highest court in Paris. Later, under Charles V, judicial power was handed over to a concierge, turning it into a palace of justice and a prison. Many national prisoners, such as Ravaillac who killed King Henry IV, were imprisoned here. Later, the Revolutionary Tribunal occupied the palace and further strengthened its prison characteristics. In 1914, the Conciergerie was officially designated as a historic monument. Address 2 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris
Opening hours 9:30-18:00
Special openings: Easter, Easter Monday, Ascension Day, May 8th, Pentecost, July 14th, August 15th, November 1st, November 11th.
Transportation Metro: Cité station
The architecture of ancient prisons is very charming
