While the room you book in Paris via http://www.expedia.ca/Paris-Hotels.d179898.Travel-Guide-Hotels will, of necessity, come with modern amenities, it is possible still possible to immerse yourself in the glorious medieval history of the city. This ancient Roman settlement near the edge of the empire became a glorious capitol and governmental seat for some of the most powerful men and women in Europe at the time of the Middle Ages. Here are some fine examples of that time.

Saint Severin

One of the oldest churches in Paris, a true little brother to the gloriousness that is Notre Dame or Chartres Cathedrals, the Saint Severin church is nonetheless a significant historical building on the Left Bank with tons of Gothic flair. The bell tower dates from the 1200s, but visitors will surely marvel at the gargoyles flanking the exterior, as well as the soaring ceiling inside and the twisting “palm tree” pillar in the ambulatory.

La Conciergerie

In 1385 Charles V moved the seat of royal residence to the Louvre, thus ending La Conciergerie’s 400-year reign as the home of the French royal families. In those 400 years the medieval Kings of France improved and expanded, constructing the Great Hall, the Hall of the Soldiers and the adjoining Sainte-Chapelle. After Charles V moved his household across the river to the Louvre, La Conciergerie remained an important governmental building, housing the French parliament and the chancellery, but it also began to serve as a prison.

Musee National du Moyen Age

While the Louvre houses spectacular works of medieval art, The National Medieval Art Museum in Paris is a worthy destination for those seeking works such as the Lady and the Unicorn tapestry and various other objects from everyday life at the time. An especially lovely area is the Medieval Garden, cultivated to resemble a period herb, vegetable and flower garden. Time your visit for the first Sunday of the month and your admission is free.