The Sorbonne's international reputation has always placed it among Europe's most important universities. It is a vital part of a long university tradition.
Robert de Sorbon founded a college in 1253 for theology students without money. The pope approved of the idea, and it later became the University of Paris.
Cardinal Richelieu was elected president of the Sorbonne in August 1622 and decided to rebuild it all. He gave the work to Jacques Le Mercier and the first stone was laid on March 28, 1627. The Sorbonne Church was begun in 1635, and is the home of Richelieu's tomb, and Girardon's sculpture of the Cardinal. The chapel is the only building still standing from this era. The Sorbonne was rebuilt again by Nenot in 1883 in order to provide more room for the increasing demands of students. Amphitheaters, test rooms, labs, a library with over 2 million works, and an observatory were all built for the growing student body.
La Sorbonne view from the sky. 
The left side of the chapel acts as an edge of the big courtyard of the Sorbonne. It is flanked by a portico formed by ten Corinthian columns between which opens the big door. 
Staircase of honour 
Hall 
The room of Authorities at the back of the big amphitheatre. It is here that they meet before big official ceremonies. 
The stands of the first floor of the big amphitheatre are separated by statues representing important personalities. Here on the first plan, Lavoisier, then Descartes, and Robert de Sorbon; 
The big amphitheatre inaugurated in 1889 is decorated with this huge fresco, "Sacred Wood", painted by Pierre Puvis de Chavannes. Around a " secular virgin " representing the Sorbonne, a multitude of figures, allegories of taught disciplines, liven up the canvas. 
Painting representing the delivery of the Charter of the Sorbonne to Robert de Sorbon in 1254, a french theologian and founder of the Sorbonne University in Paris. The University was however created only in 1257, intended to teach theology to twenty poor students. The represented King is King Saint Louis. Now, you know where the name Sorbonne comes from! 
The dome 
The dome of the Sorbonne is encircled by four medaillons painted by François Flameng at the end of the XIXth century. They represent the universities of Paris: Letters, Sciences, laws and Medicine 
In 1250, the University of Abélard left the Island of the City (Ile de la Cité) for the Butte Sainte-Geneviève where it created its own schooling. But the Church ruled that they speak only Latin, whereby the name of Latin Quarter. So now, you know where the name Latin Quarter comes from!
For the past thirty years, this brand has designed fashionable ready-to-wear clothing for children from birth to age 10. With its original style and high-quality materials, colours and finishing, this brand has become a benchmark for mothers. If you’re shopping for a gift for a new baby, a beautiful baby top in embroidered sheer cotton or a little floral peasant dress, this is the shop to visit. The Rue de Tournon location invites you to discover the world of Bonpoint, offering over 1000 m2 of floor space.
Bonpoint, 6, Rue de Tournon 75006 Paris – Shop on-line at www.bonpoint.com
The first L’Occitane Spa in Paris recently opened near the Hotel Odeon Saint-Germain. This brand is known for its plant-based products. With face and body care along with treatment packages, every act is a ritual accompanied by the scents of Provence. After intense days of touring Paris, you’ll enjoy an exquisite opportunity to relax.
Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll through the Luxembourg Garden, a peaceful haven in the heart of Paris. The Luxembourg Garden is a private garden which is open to the public. Established in 1612 at the request of Marie de Médici, it covers 23 hectares with lawns, flower beds and sculptures. It’s one of the favourite gardens of Parisians, students (in nice weather, you’ll see small groups of them studying for exams on the lawns) and walkers.
The Palais de Luxembourg, the former residence of Marie de Médici, today houses the French Senate. The museum is devoted to major temporary art exhibitions, renowned for the high quality of works on display.
In the summer, don’t miss the ice cream stand at the Boulevard Saint-Michel entrance, offering dozens of different flavours…
Jardin du Luxembourg, Boulevard Saint-Michel 75006 Paris
The nearest Vélib station to the Hotel Odeon Saint-Germain is located at 34 Rue de Condé. Thanks to Vélib, you can now tour Paris in complete freedom. Since Vélib was founded, its success is undeniable. The number of stations and bicycles is constantly rising and the system now extends to the inner suburbs. Carefully respect the bicycling rules of the road, use reserved pathways and all will go well! Discover new routes on the Vélib website: www.velib.paris.fr