Samaritaine Paris: The Iconic Beauty of a Department Store
Parisian charm, history, and luxury shopping all blend together to create a magical experience at the most famous department store of the Paris; Samaritaine. Samaritaine was opened on 12 October 1907 in Rue Du Coin des Bouchers (Rue Puteaux). This iconic department store is packed with architectural beauty and exciting experiences that allow you to not only indulge in luxury shopping but also scour through a vibrant collection of culture exhibits. In this blog, we will take you on a journey through the history and design of Samaritaine and tell you the exciting stories that lie hidden away in each aisle. From the luxurious dining options, bridging the old and new design, to top ways to experience nearby attractions, we’ve got you covered. So come along as we help you plan your next visit to this historic shopping district in Paris.
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Why is Samaritaine a must-see place?
Samaritaine, a historic Parisian department store, recently underwent a magnificent renovation and has reopened after four years. Samaritaine is a century-old luxury department store located at 48 rue de la Monnaie in the 2nd arrondissement of Paris, France. It was built as an art nouveau-style department store and retains this architectural design with its facade decorated in various hues of brick red, pale blue and creamy white.
The building has two entrances which are situated on street level while there is also a third entrance (1st floor). This store has proved worthy of its hype throughout history, promising and delivering fineries at reasonable prices. The revamped store retains its original charm with restored Art Deco and Art Nouveau detailing that adds to the stunning drapery of its interiors.
The building offers more than 650 popular brands with plenty of boutique stores, making Samaritaine a top contender in the list of luxury shopping complexes. Visitors can revel in the grandeur of continental Europe’s largest beauty space, something that has to be experienced to be believed. The department store’s central location in the first arrondissement commands the Right Bank, making it easily accessible from Paris Perfect’s holiday apartments – truly an icon in the making.
History of Samaritaine
Samaritaine, one of Paris’s iconic department stores, has a rich history. It was established in 1870 by Ernest Cognacq and Marie-Louise Jaÿ, who revolutionized the shopping experience by offering affordable goods with clear markings of prices. Samaritaine’s location on Seine with its recognizable name was designed by architects Frantz Jourdain and Henri Sauvage. The name Samaritaine was derived from an ancient water pump on the Pont Neuf bridge, featuring a bas-relief of a Samaritan woman serving water to Christ. The store began as a small shop selling fabrics and textiles at the spot where the pump stood. Over the years, Samaritaine’s popularity grew by allowing customers to try on clothes before purchasing. These innovations have contributed to Samaritaine’s lasting legacy in Paris.
Construction History of Samaritaine
Samaritaine has a construction history dating back to the early 20th century. Recently, the store underwent a $750 million renovation to restore the original Art Nouveau building and add a new contemporary wing to create a luxury-focused shopping experience. Owned by LVMH and DFS, Samaritaine now offers a wide selection of designer brands and artisanal products. The newly renovated department store is now a stunning mix of Art Deco and Art Nouveau details, boasting a modern look that is a hit among shoppers. Samaritaine’s two buildings, Pont Neuf and Rivoli, hosts a large department store that offers fashion, accessories, beauty, perfumery, jewelry, watches, home design, and gadgets, with a fashion-forward Designer Lab.
LVMH, which currently owns Samaritaine, is a leading luxury brand founded in 1900 by Lucien maurice hachette. today it operates over 50 stores and factories around the world, as well as an extensive catalog business. it is headquartered near Paris, France. The company’s flagship store was opened at 108 avenue marceau in 1914 under the name of “moulin rouge”, or “red windmill”.
The Road to Local Acceptance
The new Samaritaine department store, located on the Rive Gauche in Paris, has been the subject of excitement and controversy since its opening. In 2007, LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton) acquired the rights to the Samaritaine name and design and set out to create a modern and innovative shopping experience.
The store’s design has been both praised and criticized, with some appreciating its contemporary look, while others find fault with its high prices. However, despite these critiques, the new Samaritaine is predicted to generate more than $1 billion in revenue in its first year of operation.
Building local acceptance for the store has been an important aspect of its development. The company has worked with community leaders to get feedback on the design and to address any concerns that local residents may have. Ultimately, the new Samaritaine is poised to become another iconic beauty of Paris department stores.
The New Samaritaine: Excitement & Controversy
The newly renovated Samaritaine department store in Paris recently opened its doors after fifteen years of closure, offering an exclusive luxury shopping experience with designer brands and artisanal products. The majestic department store comprises of two buildings, Pont Neuf and Rivoli, which feature an exclusive Designer Lab with fashion-forward style and trends for the fashion-conscious shoppers.
Despite the global pandemic causing a delay in the re-opening, the hype for Samaritaine’s return has been overwhelming. The department store boasts an expansive array of luxury items, including fashion, beauty, jewelry, and perfumery, home design, and gadgets, providing shoppers with a dizzying selection of choices.
While it has stirred excitement and anticipation, the triumphant re-opening has also sparked controversy due to the store’s focus on luxury goods and high prices. Nonetheless, Samaritaine’s return to the Parisian shopping scene is undoubtedly an event in and of itself.
Luxury Shopping at Samaritaine
Samaritaine is a luxurious shopping destination in Paris that offers an unrivaled shopping experience featuring 650 renowned brands over seven levels, the largest beauty space in continental Europe, a beauty studio and the concept store Loulou. Visitors can enjoy dining at any of the 12 tempting restaurants within the department store, including Michelin-starred chefs at Voyage under the fifth floor’s Art Nouveau glass roof.
The recently updated LVMH-owned department store is a must-visit destination, with its balance of restored Art Deco and Art Nouveau details alongside contemporary design elements. Situated in the heart of the First Arrondissement, the location commands the Right Bank and is easily accessible from nearby attractions. Visitors can indulge in personal shopping experiences, including a private shopping experience L’Appartement that offers women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, shoes, watches, jewelry, and accessories.
Culture
Samaritaine is more than just a shopping destination. It is a cultural icon for Paris, with a storied past that dates back to the early 20th century. Recently, the department store underwent a massive renovation that seamlessly blends the restored Art Deco and Art Nouveau details with modern touches. Today, Samaritaine houses roughly 650 luxury labels and exclusive designer brands across seven floors, along with a massive beauty space, homeware and gift store Loulou, and the Cinq Mondes spa. Visitors to Samaritaine can meet young artists and experience contemporary cuisine while soaking up the store’s Art Nouveau and Art Deco charm. Guided cultural tours are also available, allowing visitors to learn about the history of Samaritaine and its influence on Parisian style. A visit to the nearby Musée Cognacq-Jay is a must for anyone looking to delve deeper into this rich legacy. And with its central location in the first arrondissement, Samaritaine is easily accessible and affords breathtaking views of the nearby Pont Neuf.
Tempting Dining Options
Photo Credit: @zincbybrûleriedesgobelins
Samaritaine is a luxury-focused department store in Paris that offers a diverse range of gourmet food options. With 12 unique dining options, it caters to all tastes and preferences, including Michelin-starred chefs at Voyage, vegetarian and organic dishes at Source by Joie, and French bistrot fare at Ernest. The reborn Samaritaine is located ideally to capture the visitors exploring nearby attractions such as the Louvre, and it appeals to both Parisians and international visitors. Not only is Samaritaine prominent in gourmet food options, but it also houses designer and artisanal products, including a Designer Lab at the Rivoli site for the latest fashion-forward styles. Visitors can enjoy Street Caviar by La Maison Prunier, Dinette by Dalloyau, and Petit Plisson, serving caviar baguettes, upscale gastronomy, and healthy local Parisienne dishes, respectively. Overall, Samaritaine presents a one-of-a-kind shopping and dining destination for anyone who loves luxury and style.
One of the most exciting features of the new Samaritaine is its selection of 12 exceptional restaurants. With options ranging from vegetarian and organic to caviar and Michelin-starred dining, there is something to suit every taste. At the Pont-Neuf site, diners can enjoy semi-open seating at Voyage or indulge in French bistrot fare at Ernest. Michelin-starred chefs also bring their culinary expertise to the table. Across the way at Rivoli, Ernest offers a variety of French classics.
Foodies will love dining under the fifth floor’s glass roof at Voyage, where they can savor day-long lunch and dinner menus inspired by celebrity travelers. Whether you’re in the mood for Parisian cuisine, an organic meal or a decadent Michelin-starred dish, there’s something for everyone here. With its combination of restored Art Deco and Art Nouveau details and contemporary touches, Samaritaine is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.
Location & Getting There
Samaritaine is an iconic department store located on the right bank of the Seine, facing the Pont Neuf in Paris’ 1st district, which is a hub for culture, fashion, and luxury. If you’re planning on visiting Samaritaine, the closest metro station is Pont Neuf, but it’s also just a short walk from Chatelet-Les-Halles, a major hub station.
- The address of the department store is 19 Rue de la Monnaie, 75001 Paris
- And you can easily reach it by metro via Pont Neuf on Line 7 or Chatelet-Les-Halles on Lines 1, 4, 7, 11, 14.
- If you have any further inquiries or concerns, you can also contact Samaritaine via phone at +33 1 8888 6000.
Hotels Near Au Reveil Samaritain In Paris
If you plan on visiting Samaritaine in Paris, staying at a hotel near Au Reveil Samaritain is a great choice. The newly reborn Samaritaine by DFS offers a premium shopping experience with luxury brand stores and 12 gourmet dining options. Samaritaine is located in the first arrondissement, on the right bank of the Seine, a stone’s throw from major city attractions, conveniently accessible via Pont Neuf or Chatelet-Les-Halles metro stations. Options for healthy and organic food include Source by Joie, while foodies can indulge in upscale gastronomy at Dinette by Dalloyau, situated near Au Reveil Samaritain.
Top ways to experience nearby attractions
Samaritaine is an iconic beauty of Paris department store, making it a must-see attraction for tourists visiting Quartier Latin in Paris. Visitors can make the most of their time by exploring the nearby attractions and dining at one of the 12 tempting restaurants. The area offers an array of choices, including vegetarian, organic, caviar baguettes, local Parisienne, upscale gastronomy, and breakfast bakery-to-brasserie. Guests can also venture to the statue Le Bon Samaritain or visit the rooftop for a cup of coffee and a breathtaking view of Paris, which has recently reopened. Samaritaine is a perfect place to connect with Parisian culture and enjoy the ambiance of the Quartier Latin.
It’s also a symbol of Parisian luxury and passion for unforgettable experiences. This architectural masterpiece has been welcoming Parisians and tourists alike for over a century. From designer fashion to gourmet dining options and culture, the landmark offers an unparalleled experience. It has something for everyone, from locals to visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, or exploring local attractions, Samaritaine has it all. Plan your visit and discover the beauty of Paris department stores like never before. Also! If you’d like to see nearby attractions, you can find some of the best options with the help of our Paris Guide!
