Paris Dark History Tour: Crime & Scandal Walking Adventure
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Overview
The Paris Dark History Tour lets visitors uncover the City of Lights' sinister secrets. A local guide leads guests through the shadowy, cobblestone streets, sharing tales of terrible crimes and scandals that have shaped Paris and French history. This isn't a tour of legends, but a deep dive into documented historical events.
Participants will learn about treasons, murders, trials, and executions. The guide explains what punishments were inflicted over the centuries, on whom, and why. Discover the dark story behind the invention of the guillotine, and hear about the witches who were burned alive. The tour visits locations such as the Affaire des Poisons Location, the Seine River, and the Place de la Grève (now Place de l'Hôtel de Ville). The guide will reveal the origin of the Saint Bartholomew's Massacre, and the Island of the Curse of Friday the 13th Origin. See La Conciergerie, Notre Dame Cathedral, and learn about the Location of Poisonings Under Louis XIV.
What's included is a tour guide who will lead you through the dark streets. Gratuities are not included. This walking tour provides a unique perspective on the city's past. It offers a chilling look at the events that have left a lasting mark on Paris. Explore the dark side of Paris with this unforgettable historical tour.




Highlights
Uncover Dark Secrets: Delve into the hidden history of Paris and its most scandalous events.
Expert Local Guide: Hear chilling tales from an experienced local guide.
Key Historical Sites: Visit locations of infamous crimes, trials, and executions.
Walking Tour: Explore the streets of Paris on foot.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally enjoy this tour for its engaging storytelling and unique historical perspective, but some find the dark subject matter disturbing.

The tour guide is very informative.
The stories are intriguing and well-told.
The walking pace is comfortable.
The tour provides a unique perspective on Parisian history.
Some may find the subject matter disturbing.
The tour might be too intense for young children.
The Journey
Affaire des Poisons Location
Step back in time to the heart of the Affaire des Poisons, a notorious scandal under Louis XIV where accusations of poisoning rocked the French court. Though the exact location is debated, explore the ambiance of 17th-century Paris, imagining the clandestine meetings and dark secrets that unfolded, forever staining the era's reputation. Discover the chilling tales of Madame de Montespan and her involvement, and contemplate the power and intrigue that fueled this scandalous chapter in French history.
Seine River
Glide along the enchanting Seine River, where beauty and mystery intertwine. Let your guide recount tales of bodies discovered in its depths, a poignant reminder of the river's hidden stories. As you cruise, admire the iconic landmarks that line its banks – the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre – and contemplate the lives that have been touched by this legendary waterway. Experience the Seine's romantic allure while uncovering its unsettling past.
Location of Saint Bartholomew's Massacre Origin
Delve into the tragic origins of the Saint Bartholomew's Day Massacre, a pivotal event in French history. Stand where the violence ignited, before spreading across the kingdom, and reflect on the religious tensions and political intrigue that fueled the bloodshed. Though the exact starting point within Paris is debated, immerse yourself in the atmosphere of 16th-century Paris, contemplating the devastating consequences of intolerance and the enduring impact of this dark chapter.
Department Store
Venture into a majestic department store concealing hidden stories of dishonor and despair. Beyond the displays of luxury and fashion, lies a history of personal tragedies and societal pressures. Explore the corridors and imagine the lives of those who sought solace within its walls, reflecting on the human cost of ambition and the complexities of Parisian society. Uncover the secrets whispered within its ornate architecture, where beauty masks darker truths.
Island of the Curse of Friday 13th Origin
Uncover the origins of the 'curse of Friday the 13th' on an island where the story began. Investigate the historical events linked to the Knights Templar, which fueled the superstition. Feel the eerie atmosphere as you learn about their persecution and the fateful day that forever linked Friday the 13th with misfortune. Explore the island's mysterious corners and contemplate the power of belief and the enduring legacy of this ancient curse.
La Conciergerie
Journey through the somber halls of La Conciergerie, a former royal palace turned revolutionary prison. Witness firsthand the grim reality of the French Revolution, where the guillotine reigned supreme. Walk in the footsteps of Marie Antoinette and other notable figures as you delve into their final days before execution. Experience the chilling atmosphere and reflect on the turbulent events that shaped modern France.
Place Where Saint Louis Reformed Justice
Explore a historical site connected to King Saint Louis and his profound reforms of justice in the Middle Ages. Discover how he established fairer laws and practices, leaving a lasting impact on the French legal system. Learn about his dedication to justice and morality. Reflect on how his actions shaped the legal and moral landscape of medieval France and beyond, setting a precedent for future generations.
Location of Poisonings Under Louis XIV
Explore the sinister locations associated with a series of poisonings that began under the reign of Louis XIV. Delve into the dark underbelly of the Sun King's court, where intrigue and betrayal flourished. Uncover the identities of those involved and the motives behind their deadly acts. Though the exact location is difficult to pinpoint, follow the trail of conspiracy through the city and contemplate the power struggles and dangerous secrets that defined the era.
Notre Dame Cathedral
Witness the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral illuminated against the night sky, a symbol of resilience and hope. Reflect on the devastating fire of 2019 and learn about the ongoing restoration efforts to rebuild this iconic landmark. Admire the stunning architecture and discover the rich history within its walls. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Notre Dame and celebrate its enduring spirit.
Place de la Grève (now Place de l'Hôtel de Ville)
Stand in what was once Place de la Grève, the main execution square in Paris's history, now Place de l'Hôtel de Ville. Explore the grim past of public executions, reflecting on the crimes, punishments, and the ultimate end of the death penalty in France. Imagine the crowds that gathered to witness these events and contemplate the evolution of justice and societal values. Uncover the stories of those who met their fate on this historic square and honor their memory.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a knowledgeable tour guide to lead the way. Gratuities are not included in the tour price. The meeting point will be specified upon booking, and the tour concludes near a central location for easy access to transportation. Please wear comfortable shoes as this is a walking tour.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Also, be prepared for some graphic stories. It's history, but it can be a little intense!