Palais du Luxembourg

Overlooking its famous gardens on the Left Bank, this palace was built in the early 17th century for Marie de' Medici, widow of Henri IV, who sought to recall the Florentine palaces of her youth. Its rusticated stonework and monumental proportions reflect that Italian influence adapted to French taste. Since the Revolution it has served as a seat of government and today houses the French Senate. The building's richly decorated interiors and library, occasionally open for heritage days, contain works by leading French painters.