Montparnasse in Paris is a treasure trove of artistic history and hidden gems. Here are some lesser-known facts and trivia about this vibrant neighborhood:
Montparnasse Tower, one of the tallest buildings in Paris, offers stunning panoramic views of the city. However, few know that it was once voted as one of the ugliest buildings in the world.
The Cimetière du Montparnasse is the final resting place for many famous artists and intellectuals, including Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. A hidden gem within the cemetery is the grave of Serge Gainsbourg, often adorned with metro tickets and other quirky tributes.
The La Coupole brasserie has been a meeting place for many artists and writers since it opened in 1927. It features murals painted by artists who couldn't afford to pay for their meals.
Le Dôme Café was known as the "American Club" due to the high number of American expatriates who frequented it. Among its patrons were literary giants like Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
La Rotonde, another iconic café, was a favorite of Pablo Picasso. Legend has it that Picasso used to pay for his meals with sketches, some of which are still displayed in the café.
The Musée Bourdelle, dedicated to the works of sculptor Antoine Bourdelle, is less crowded than other Parisian museums. It features Bourdelle’s studio and a beautiful garden adorned with his sculptures.
The Academie de la Grande Chaumière was a progressive art school that attracted students from around the world. Notable alumni include Amedeo Modigliani and Alexander Calder.
One of Montparnasse's quirkiest landmarks is the Rue de la Gaîté, a street famous for its theaters and cabarets. It’s home to the Théâtre de la Gaîté-Montparnasse, which has hosted performances since the 19th century.
The Montparnasse Bienvenüe metro station is named after engineer Fulgence Bienvenüe, considered the father of the Paris Métro. It’s one of the busiest and most complex stations in Paris.
Hidden beneath Montparnasse is the Catacombs, an underground ossuary holding the remains of over six million people. Though not directly part of Montparnasse, the eerie tunnels extend beneath the neighborhood.
In the 1920s, Montparnasse was the heart of the "Lost Generation," a term coined by Gertrude Stein to describe expatriate American writers disillusioned by World War I.
The Fondation Cartier pour l'Art Contemporain is a modern art museum housed in a stunning glass building designed by architect Jean Nouvel.
Montparnasse’s vibrant history and hidden gems make it a fascinating area to explore, offering a blend of artistic heritage and modern attractions.