The hôtel de ville in the fourth arrondissement is only open to groups by arrangement. Our class was fortunate to have the opportunity to see the interior of this beautiful building. It is a 19th century reconstruction of the 17th century town hall that was burned down in 1871. It is highly ornate with elaborate stonework, turrets and statues overlooking a large, beautiful square complete with fountains and night time illumination. The square was once the main site for hangings, burnings and other executions. It was here that Ravaillac, Henri IV’s assassin, was quartered alive, his body ripped to pieces by four strong horses.
interior…
