Paris 6e Arrondissement

Background

In the 6th century the area of the 6e arrondissement was dominated by the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés which was built on the outskirts of the old city; at that time the left bank was prone to flooding and had therefore not been previously developed. Over the centuries the Benedictine abbey became one of the richest in France and it remained the centre of religious academic life right up until the beginning of the French Revolution. After the Second World War the area around the church became famous worldwide as the haunt of intellectuals, writers and artists including Sartre, Hemingway and Joyce who spent their time in the renowned cafes located on the Boulevard Saint-Germain.

Nearby, the university of the Sorbonne was founded in 1257 and most of the students coming from afar to study communicated in Latin, giving the name to the Quartier Latin which  straddles the 5e and 6e  arrondissements between Saint-Germain and the river. The district is known for its universities, colleges and academic institutions which include the Académie des Beaux Arts and the Académie Française, as well as its winding medieval streets, beautiful architecture and one of the most attractive parks in the city.
Although some of the original bohemian charm of the 6e has been replaced in recent years by fashionable shops, bars and restaurants, it nevertheless maintains its appeal and the central location combined with fascinating history and quirky ambience make property in the neighbourhood highly desirable.

Profile

The 6e and in particular the quarter of Saint-Germain-des-Près is the symbol of Parisian elegance and refinement. Although the area is home to some important institutions as well as the Senate and the Jardin du Luxembourg, it is chiefly a high-class residential district. Its educational establishments and universities giving it an additional advantage to wealthy families. The prestige of the area is also the reason that it is so popular with foreign property buyers who form 13% of the district’s inhabitants (amongst which the majority are Italian).

Consisting of the four quartiers of  Monnaie, Odéon, Notre-Dame-des-Champs and Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The 6e arrondissement is predominantly noted for its superb architecture and its period buildings, many of which date from Haussmann. The most sought after parts are those of Saint-Germain around the Jardin de Luxembourg or along the bank of the Seine. In terms of properties, there is a strong interest in family-sized apartments which have been newly renovated and have high asking prices - along with the 7e this is the most expensive district. For smaller apartments, there are 3 or 4 room apartments which are often bought by foreigners wishing to buy in this chic, charming neighbourhood.