Officially opened in 1612 as the Place Royale, the Place des Vosges was constructed on the orders of Henri IV who died before he saw it completed. It quickly attracted high society to the Marais, often visited by Madame de Sevigne, Racine, La Fontaine, and Moliere. After a long period of decline, the Marais has recovered its aristocratic credentials. Nowadays, beneath the arcades of the square, it is a pleasure to browse in the antique shops, visit the art galleries or dine in a good restaurant. In the heart of historic Paris, the Pavillon de la Reine is a delightful pied-a-terre that offers all the comfort of a grand hotel. In this lively area of Paris, the Pavillon de la Reine is an oasis: the flowered courtyard isolates the guest rooms from the outside animation. If your room doesn't overlook the courtyard, then you may contemplate the patio planted of trees and flowers. The owner decorated the Pavillon de la Reine as if it were her own house so that everybody feels at home: wood fire burning in the grand fireplace, elegant carpets covering large flagstones, panelling and beams decorating walls and ceilings. You can also pour yourself a drink at the "honesty bar".