You probably have read the name in your tourist guide book. Parisians may have suggested the name to you as a worth visit place. But actually what is Ile Saint Louis?
Île Saint Louis is one of natural island attractions in the Seine River, Paris. The other natural island in the river is Île de la Cité while one other island, Île aux Cygnes is an artificial one. The island is named after one of France’s greatest kings, King Louis IX.
The island is a unique tourist attraction due to its unusual nature and the different atmosphere it offers. In the middle of a very hectic and crowded city, there lies an oasis which will take you away from all the city rush into the decency of quality living. Right at the heart of Paris, a treasure is ready to welcome you and provide you with different Paris experience.
Île Saint Louis: History
The Île Saint Louis island was originally named Île Notre Dame by its first owners, the canons of Notre Dame. Unlike its neighboring island, Île de la Cite, the island still did not attract people’s attention and was uninhabited until the early 16th century.
The King from whom it gets its name, King Louis IX, was the first person who showed attraction to the island. He would come there to read and pray in serenity. It was in this island also the King dubbed his knights and released the 8th crusade army.
When Philippe le Bel ruled, the island came more alive as it was used as the place for jousting tournaments and magnificent royal celebrations. More people also were following the step of King Louis IX to find some tranquility in the island.
By the 16th century, Louis XIII and Maria de Medicis ordered for its construction. The construction took a very long time and was just completed in 1660. People from various backgrounds started to fill in the island after its completion. Artisans, merchants, workers, and entrepreneurs lived along the main thoroughfares while aristocracy and bourgeoisie preferred the quays. As for those noblemen’s residences, luxurious mansions were constructed under the care of Louis Le Vau, the famous architect who designed Versailles.
If we move back further into the time, history recorded that Île Saint Louis was the exact place where the first Celtic inhabitants of Paris, Parisii, arrived and built their settlement. When the war broke and Gaul was defeated by Julius Caesar in 52 BC, new settlement on the left bank of the river was built so the original settlement in Île Saint Louis was abandoned.
Île Saint Louis – Places to Visit in Paris
As the escape alternative from the city life, the Île Saint Louis island only has one-way streets and two bus stations. There is no metro station and most of the buildings are residential. There is one big old church in the middle of the island, Saint-Louis-en-I’Île Church if you want to further your spiritual journey.
Still, there are some places you cannot miss when you finally visit the island. Bakery, wine house, florist, cheese shop, handcraft jewelry shops are available in an original small town atmosphere.
Berthillon Ice Cream The Berthilon ice cream is famous for its rich colors and flavors. The most popular flavors are dark chocolate and mango. Although there are several shops in the island, you may want to try the one at 31 rue St Louis-en-I’Île which is the original shop to date.
Boutique shopping Boutiques and shops are lining up alongside the Saint Louis en Î’le. However, as prices in any other tourist attractions, they are a bit overpriced. Still, you will not waste your visit since there are unique souvenirs to buy for you or your loved ones at home.
Pont Saint-Louis There is a small bridge that connects Île Saint Louis with its neighboring natural island, Î’le la Cite. Many street performers like jugglers, mimes, and jazz bands love to show off what they’ve got for visitors to enjoy.
Saint Louis en I’Île church The only church in the island won’t disappoint you. After all, it has a long history since 1622 when it was first built. Surely you won’t regret enjoying the stunning wooden door full of angels decorations and impressive interior.
Franc Pinot cabaret The watering hole has been popular since the 17th century. You can find the bar near the intersection with Pont Marie.
Visiting Île Saint Louis
There are only two bus stops and no metro station in the Île Saint Louis island. However, the island is connected by bridges to Seine river banks and Île de la Cite. Here is the list of bridges that can be used as entrances to the island.
Pont Saint-Louis from the Île de la Cité;
Pont de la Tournelle from the Rive Gauche;
Pont Louis-Philippe from the Rive Droite;
Pont Marie from the Rive Droite;
Pont Sully from the Rive Droite and the Rive Gauche.