Cultural Programme
On Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 May 2026, you will have the opportunity to take part in cultural outings and activities near the main venues of the Una Europa General Assembly in Paris. As places for each visit are limited, we kindly ask you to select only one activity from the available options. This will help ensure that as many participants as possible can take part in the cultural programme. We thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Guided tour | Notre-Dame-de-Paris
Located in the historic heart of Paris and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, Notre-Dame-de-Paris is France’s most visited monument. The origins of the cathedral date back to the early Christian era, when King Clovis I made Paris a major religious centre in the 4th-5th century. A first cathedral, Saint-Étienne, once stood on this site before the current monument. In 1163, Bishop Maurice de Sully initiated the construction of a vast new cathedral to accommodate a growing population. Built during the 12th and 13th centuries, Notre-Dame-de-Paris became a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. In the 19th century, the success of Victor Hugo’s novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame led to a major restauration of the cathedral by architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, which significantly reshaped its appearance, including the addition of a new spire. Following the devastating fire of April 2019, which destroyed its roof and spire, a significant restauration project was undertaken, leading to its reopening in December 2024. The tour will focus on the cathedral’s history, closely intertwined with the history of Paris and France, as well as on the evolution of its architecture over the centuries.
• Wednesday, 27 May 2026 | 9:00 AM
Meeting point: forecourt of Notre-Dame Cathedral (at the junction between Rue d’Arcole and Rue du Cloître Notre-Dame).
Guided tour | Paris University History through the Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter is one of the most visited areas of Paris. At the same time, it bears witness to the rich history of the University of Paris. During this tour, you will discover several key stages in this history: from the establishment of the University in the Middle Ages, in response to the democratization of teaching and learning and in contrast to the cathedral schools (notably Notre-Dame), to the construction of emblematic institutions such as the Sorbonne, the Schools of Law and Medicine, and, subsequently, the Collège de France, which played an important role in introducing new fields of study under the influence of Humanism. The tour will also highlight more recent developments, including the division into thirteen separate universities following the events of May 1968 and the formation of new academic alliances today. Particular attention will be given to the ways in which the history of the University has been closely intertwined with major historical events in Paris and France.
• Wednesday, 27 May 2026 | 17:00
• Thursday, 28 May 2026 | 18:15
Meeting point: in front of the Church Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre (1, rue Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre, 75005 Paris).
Guided tour | The Sorbonne Library (BIS)
The Sorbonne Library (Bibliothèque Interuniversitaire Sorbonne) is a major research library specialising in Humanities and Social Sciences. Founded in 1763, and opened to the public in 1770, the library as it stands today has been established in the current Sorbonne buildings in 1897. The library holds about 2 million printed items and an extensive range of digital resources, mainly specialised in History, Geography, French Literature, Philosophy, and Classical Studies. The library also preserves an outstanding heritage collection, including manuscripts, incunabula, cartographic and iconographic archives, some of them dating back to the 10th century. The tour will include a visit to some of the library’s most remarkable rooms, and a presentation of selected pieces from its prestigious heritage collection.
• Thursday, 28 May 2026 | 18:15 (guided tour in French)
• Thursday, 28 May 2026 | 18:15 (guided tour in English)
Meeting point: at the library entrance (Centre Sorbonne, gallery Robert de Sorbon, Bibliothèque Interuniversitaire Sorbonne).
Pétanque Introduction | Arènes de Lutèce
In one of Paris’ ancient Roman ruins, you will discover the basics of this friendly and accessible game from the South of France. Learn the main rules, try out key throwing techniques, and enjoy a relaxing moment with your colleagues. It is the perfect way to enjoy some outdoor time after a busy day of meetings. No prior experience is needed. Just join the passion for one of France’s most beloved sports and bring your sunglasses!
• Wednesday, 27 May 2026 | 17:00
• Thursday, 28 May 2026 | 18:20
Meeting point: Square des Arènes de Lutèce, 4 rue des Arènes, 75005 Paris
French Discovery Walk | Jardin du Luxembourg
Join an immersive French language discovery walk in the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg. The Jardin du Luxembourg was commissioned by Marie de Médicis in the early 17th century and has evolved over the centuries. Inspired by the Italian Renaissance gardens of her native Florence, it later evolved into a more formal French style in the 19th century, featuring harmonious symmetry, long perspectives, and carefully designed geometric parterres. Today, it remains closely linked to the Luxembourg Palace, home to the French Senate. As you stroll through the park, you will learn useful everyday French through fun, interactive activities. You will practise introducing yourself, asking for directions, ordering a coffee, and handling simple interactions in shops or on the street.
• Wednesday, 27 May 2026 | 18:00
• Thursday, 28 May 2026 | 18:30
Meeting point: next to the RER exit on Boulevard Saint-Michel, near the entrance to the Jardin du Luxembourg.