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Main entrance of the Hôtel-Dieu, in 2007

 

Episodes from the Life of a Bishop-Saint, by the Master of Saint Giles (ca. 1500), showing the Gothic buildings of the Hotel Dieu at right. These survived until the 18th century

The Hôtel-Dieu is regarded as the oldest hospital in the city of Paris, France. It is located on the Île de la Cité, next to Notre-Dame.

Renowned for its extensive support for charities, it is also known for the exceptional calibre of doctors and surgeons who have been residents at the facility. The Hôtel-Dieu de Paris has acquired a reputation for excellence in many fields, including oncology, ophthalmology, as well as dietary and nutrition studies.

Founded by Saint Landry in 651, the hospital still resides on the Île de la Cité — where the facility was originally built. As a result of its central location, the hospital has always shared the fortunes of the city, both beneficial and catastrophic. Although the facility has been ravaged by disastrous fires on several occasions, the hospital remains in existence today (the current architecture dates back to 1877.)

Notable physicians, researchers, and surgeons who practised at the hospital include Bichat, Dupuytren, Desault, Récamier, Cholmen, Dieulafoy, Trousseau, Ambroise Pare, among other notable figures.