Paris Île St-Louis

The Bibliothèque Polonaise de Paris hosts the only official “museums” on the island, but the elegant hôtels particuliers that abound can be considered museums in their own right. Many of them have small plaques explaining the historical significance of the building—a walk along any of the quais will reveal a number of historical monuments.

Musée Adam Mickiewicz . Adam Mickiewicz, one of the most best-known and celebrated Polish poets, was considered the greatest Polish Romantic poet of the 19th century. Born in Nowogródek, he emigrated to France during the 1830 war for independence, and became a major actor in the intellectual and cultural circles of Paris at the time. The museum, located in the Bibliothèque Polonaise de Paris and dedicated to the poet, also presents the social and historical context of Mickiewicz’s life in Poland and elsewhere. Founded by the poet’s son, the museum includes letters from Goethe and Hugo as well as a sketch by Delacroix on George Sand’s letterhead. In the same building are the Musée Boleslas Bregas, featuring a collection of paintings, and the Salon Chopin, a small room displaying letters, music scores and the death mask of the celebrated composer. There are also free temporary exhibits on the Polish historical and literary legacy several times a year. (6 quai d’Orléans, Île-St-Louis. Pont Marie. ☎01 55 42 83 83. Ring buzzer marked “gardien,” enter and present yourself at the information office to the right. Admission to Musée Adam Mickiewicz, Musée Boleslas Bregas, and Salon Chopin. €5, students, over 60 and under 18 €2; under 12 free. Temporary exhibits free. Open Th 2:15, 3, 3:45, 4:30, and 5:15pm; Sa 9, 10, 11am, and noon. You must arrive at one of these times to be admitted to the museum.)

Galerie Alizé, 45 rue St-Louis en l’Île, Île St-Louis (☎01 46 34 26 32). Pont Marie. A quirky and fascinating collection of original porcelain, bronze, and wooden animal sculptures and decorative pieces, many from such far off places as Burkina Faso, Indonesia, and Zimbabwe. From figurines of frogs dancing, reading, and teaching, to gigantic and colorful roosters to sombre hippos and elephants. Open M and W-Su noon-8pm.