Database: Hôtel Dieu

This is the oldest hospital in Paris - dating to the mid-7th century. It was originally started as a refuge for the poor and sick, funded by the nobility as a charity. By the time of the revolution it had earned a terrible reputation. Those who died here were more likely to have contracted a disease inside its wall than outside.* -- * I hope that was their corporate slogan. -- The hospital has undergone numerous renovations over the years, but it still serves as an emergency center for the first 9 arrondisements of Paris. ** -- ** They must be thrilled. --