Today I ventured just outside the Paris city limits. First stop was the Cimetière des Chiens (dog cemetery) in Asnières-sur-Seine on the northwest edge of Paris. First open in 1899, this pet cemetery is the burial site for dogs as well as cats, birds, hamsters and other beloved pets. It’s also residence to several cats who are looked after by the staff. It was a peaceful and warming reminder of people’s love for their animal friends and family. Many of the graves are still adorned with trinkets and flowers.
Then, to the Musée Fragonard at the École Vétérinaire de Maisons-Alfort (veterinary museum) on the city’s southeast border. Opened in 1766, the museum is situated on the grounds of one of the world’s oldest veterinary school, which is still in operation today. It houses many unusual medical items including skeletons of siamese cows and birds, an entire floor-to-ceiling case of horse teeth and another of hooves. There are many other more extreme items but I’ll leave it to your curiosity to learn more.
Both are probably not typical destinations in Paris but I was drawn to each both for their uniqueness and because of the much smaller crowds – I very nearly had both places to myself. Afterward, I headed back into the city to enjoy more the Marais (3rd arr.), which is where we are staying. Walking around I came upon several cute shops and enjoyed a delicious crêpe. The best part was coming across a vintage postcard shop, where we spent nearly two hours enjoying all the beautiful imagery of Paris’ past. I picked up several postcards I’ll share soon.
Tomorrow we head to Giverney, home of Claude Monet’s house and garden. It’s been beautiful weather this weekend so I’m sure to have more colorful snapshots to share tomorrow.
