Centre culturel irlandais

Situated inside a grand old edifice encircling a courtyard on the aptly named Rue des Irlandais, the Centre culturel irlandais boasts a colourful history inextricably tied to that of the country it represents. Founded as an academy back in the 16th century, the institute initially served as a kind of safe house for Catholics fleeing the religious purges in Ireland. It hasn't lost its scholastic vibe – it still offers a library and boarding rooms for visiting Irish students – but its remit has since widened to include cultural events of all stripes. A large indoor space plays host to a variety of gigs, exhibitions, conferences, screenings and more (though Francophone visitors should be warned that French subtitles aren't always supplied). The programme covers a commendably wide cross-section of Irish culture – recent events include a folk-rock gig, a 'humourous' economics lecture and a screening of 'Shame' (Michael Fassbender providing the cultural connection) – though the centre's stated ambition to bring together French and Irish artists has yet to be fully realised.