Colonne Médicis
4.5
(19)This solitary Doric column, built in 1575 for Catherine de' Medici, is the only remaining piece of her grand home, the Hôtel de Soissons. It was designed by Jean Bullant and served as an observation point for the queen's astrologer, Cosimo Ruggieri. The column stands 28 meters high and features a spiral staircase inside, though it's not accessible to the public.
Address
1 All. Baltard, 75001 Paris, France
Worth it?
Worth it if you appreciate historical curiosities and enjoy imagining the stories behind them
Skip if you're looking for an interactive experience or accessible views
Location
1 All. Baltard, 75001 Paris, France
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Highlights
The column's top platform, once covered by a glass roof, is now capped with an iron frame, and its four corners align with the cardinal points of a compass.
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Who it's for
Anyone interested in a unique piece of Parisian history, especially those fascinated by royal intrigue, astrology, or unusual architecture.
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Reviews
4.5
Exceptional
5 ReviewsVisitors are consistently fascinated by the column's mysterious history and its connection to Catherine de' Medici and her astrologer. While the interior is not open, its imposing architecture and historical significance make it a worthwhile stop for those who enjoy uncovering Paris's hidden stories.
Fun facts
The column is believed to be a tribute to Henri II, Catherine de' Medici's husband, who died after a prediction by Nostradamus.
A Latin inscription at its base confirms it as the sole remnant of Catherine de' Medici's 1572 hotel.
Legend claims that on stormy nights, a long black silhouette appears in the iron cage at the top of the column.
