The Conciergerie a former courthouse and prison in Paris, located below the Palais de Justice — two large medieval halls remain with an impressive, endless number of stone arches. The photos are from the Hall of the Men-at-arms and the Hall of the Guards.

The original structures originated from the first century and became part of the Gallo-Roman city of Lutetiaand — the halls you see in these images date from the 14th century. The facility played a central role during the French Revolution, imprisoning 2,780 people, including Marie-Antoinette, of “Let them Eat Cake” fame.

When I visited, the halls were under construction, with lumber and caution tape marring an opportunity at a pristine architectural photo.

Beyond the columns, however, there was little to see. But looks could be deceiving. Upon entering, we were handed a tablet that virtually simulated what the facility looked like centuries ago — sort of a primitive virtual reality exhibit. It made for an interactive experience though less enjoyable photographically.

As part of the construction, they seem to add statues depicting life in the great hall. I found these lounging dogs.

The most dramatic image was this monochrome street photograph I shot inside, which was more interesting than the architecture. However, the endless arches make for a worthwhile repeating element. The detailed Wikipedia entry indicates the Hall of Men-at-Arms is the largest non-religious Gothic hall in Europe.

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