A marsh, as its name says
Marais means marsh. Before it was built over, the area was a low-lying, marshy land on the right bank of the Seine. In the Middle Ages, religious orders and military orders such as the Templars drained and cultivated it, and built enclosures that gave the district its first structure.
The wall of Philippe Auguste
At the end of the 12th century, Philippe Auguste had a wall built around Paris. A stretch of it can still be seen near rue des Jardins-Saint-Paul, a short walk from the hotel.
The aristocratic age
In the 17th century, with the creation of Place Royale (now Place des Vosges), the nobility made the Marais its favourite district and built the hôtels particuliers that are still its pride (see our walk).
Decline and rescue
After the court left for Versailles and the Revolution, many mansions were divided, turned into workshops and fell into disrepair. In the 1960s, the district was designated a protected area, which launched a major restoration and gave Le Marais the look we know today.
A living district
Today the Marais combines museums, independent shops, galleries, cafés and communities that have shaped its identity for generations. On rue Saint-Antoine, our house has welcomed travellers since at least 1867: read its story.
For further reading. To go from history to walking, follow our one-day route in Le Marais.
Frequently asked questions
Since when has La Herse d'Or welcomed travellers?
A house has welcomed travellers on rue Saint-Antoine since at least 1867.