Introduction and Identity
In 1963, in accordance with the law of 1901*, Paris historique (Association pour la Sauvegarde et la Mise en valeur du Paris historique) was founded as an “association” (people with a common purpose in a non profit organization).
Furthermore since 2015, Paris historique has been classified as « Worthy of public interest ».
Located in the Marais in the house of Ourscamp (44-46 rue François Miron – 75004 Paris), made up of a 13th century cellar below a restored 16th century house, the association is committed to preserving historical Paris and stimulating public interest in the heritage of Paris.
The objectives of Paris historique are twofold:
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Safeguarding and promoting the heritage of historical Paris;
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Organizing guided tours in Paris and lectures about Paris for the public.
Paris historique doesn’t receive subsidies but is financially reliant on membership fees, donations, profit from shop sales, guided tours, lectures… Moreover, Paris historique operates exclusively with volunteers.
The Origin of Paris historique: the Marais threatened (1960s)
In 1921, the neighborhoods of Saint-Gervais and Saint-Paul churches were defined as “unsanitary” and partly programmed for demolition, despite their architectural splendor, including many 17th century private mansions or “hôtels particuliers”.
The Birth of a Movement: Festival du Marais (1962)
In response Michel Raude, supported by concerned Parisians, founded the Festival du Marais. The aim of the Festival was to stress the aesthetic and economic value of restoration as opposed to demolition. Interesting the public in cultural events, the Festival played a crucial role in shifting public opinion.
Supportive of the movement, the Minister of Culture André Malraux had a landmark law passed in 1962 which protected historical monuments and made the Marais the first “secteur sauvegardé” (protected area) in 1964.
Encouraged by the favorable reaction, Michel Raude, engineer with a passion for architecture, and others founded Paris historique in 1963. The Festival du Marais continued until 1993.
*Under French law governing associations, an « association loi de 1901 » is a non-profit association governed by the law of July 1, 1901.
