5th Arrondissement of Paris : The historic and intellectual heart of Paris
The construction of the 5th arrondissement, also known as the Latin Quarter, dates back to the 1st century BC. Located on the left bank of the Seine, it is bordered by the 4th, 6th, and 14th arrondissements. It takes that name from the numerous schools of the University of Paris that were installed all teaching and speaking in Latin. This district has had a history of scholars and young activists inhabiting it. In fact, in May 1968, the Latin Quarter was the center of student revolt, which led to the occupation of the Sorbonne, the most famous and prestigious university in Paris. The Pantheon, which stands just near the town hall of the 5th, was initially planned to be a church, but it now houses and honors excellent characters who made a mark on French history.