5th Arrondissement

Quartier Latin is an area in Paris, France located around the Sorbonne University, on the left bank of the River Seine. It derived its name from the Latin language which was predominantly used in the university and its surrounding areas during the Middle Ages.

La Sorbonne is commonly attributed to the University of Paris that is actually composed of thirteen independent successor universities.

Sights & Activities

There are a lot of sights to see in Quartier Latin, especially for first time visitors. The Musée de Cluny is located within the 5th arrondissement, along Rue du Sommerard. Just like most of the buildings in the area, it was built during the Medieval Ages and contains some relics connected to the history of the city. Included in the items showcased are beautiful tapestries, sculptures, and interior furnishings.

Another historic structure is the Church of Saint-Séverin, located along Rue St- Séverin. The current structure’s foundation was laid in the 11th century and still provides services up to the present. The structure was completed only in the 15th century and features fine gargoyle statues, bells cast in the 15th century, and magnificent stained glass windows. While inside the church, visitors should take time to behold a palm-shaped pillar and its marble choir.

Nearby is another historic church, the Saint Julien le Pauvre. Located in the 5th arrondissement and fronting the bank of the Seine, this church was constructed during the 13th century. The church garden features the ‘The Lucky Tree of Paris,’ which is considered to be the oldest tree in the city and is believed to bring good luck to anyone who touches its bark.

Located on the northern end of Boulevard Saint-Michel is the La Place Saint-Michel, a square that contains a fountain of the same name. The Fountain Saint-Michel was built in 1855 and depicts two dragons. The square is also an ideal spot to view some of the monuments on the nearby Île de la Cité, such as the Notre Dame de Paris and the Palace of Justice.

Visitors shouldn’t also miss a trip to Le Pantheon, a Neo-Classical building located at the end of Rue Soufflot. The building is set on top of the Montage Sainte-Geneviève and thus affords visitors with scenic views of the surrounding areas. Originally a church dedicated to Sainte- Geneviève, it was completed in 1789. Apart from its liturgical services, it also features an extensive burial crypt that is the resting place of some prominent Frenchmen such as Voltaire, Victor Hugo, Louis Braille, and its architect, Soufflot.

The University of Paris, or Le Sorbonne, traces its origins in the later half of the 12th century. Also located within the Quartier Latin, its popular name was derived from the former Collège de Sorbonne, which was founded by Robert de Sorbonne. After enjoying prestige as a top educational institution of the country, the university was reorganized in 1970 into thirteen universities that are independent of each other.

Eating Out

Because of the number of attractions and educational institutions in Quartier Latin, there are numerous eating establishments scattered all over the district. Near the La Sorbonne is the Le Cosi, situated along Rue Cujas and serves Corsican dishes. A concentration of restaurants are also located near the river bank and this includes the Ribouldingue along Rue St Julien Le Pauvre, the La Louma on Place St Michel, and Mythos along Rue Huchette.

The Quartier Latin also boasts of a lively nightlife, with several pubs and nightclubs in the area. Near the Saint- Séverin are the Nhelk and the Le Saint, both located along Rue St Séverin. Near the La Sorbonne is the Le Mambo, situated on Rue Cujas, while the L’Urgence Bar is along Rue Monsieur le Prince.