A remarkable neighbourhood, a fascinating history.
The historic neighbourhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés takes its name from the Abbey of Saint Vincent, founded in 558 by Germain, Bishop of Paris.
Following his death in the 6th century, the abbey was renamed in his honour, becoming known as Saint-Germain-des-Prés, from the Latin Sancti Germani de Pratis, meaning “Saint Germain of the Meadows”.
Over the centuries, a small village gradually developed around the magnificent abbey church. By the 12th century, the settlement had grown to around 600 inhabitants, continuing to expand into what would eventually become Paris’s 6th arrondissement.
A NEIGHBOURHOOD OF ART, LITERATURE AND CULTURE
Over time, Saint-Germain-des-Prés became one of Paris’s most celebrated artistic and intellectual centres.
During the 19th century, the wider Left Bank attracted renowned writers and artists, including Balzac, George Sand, Delacroix and Manet, helping to establish the area’s enduring reputation for creativity and cultural life.
The neighbourhood’s lively atmosphere encouraged cafés, restaurants and shops to flourish around the historic church.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, famous establishments such as Les Deux Magots, Café de Flore and Brasserie Lipp had become important meeting places for writers, artists and intellectuals.
In the decades that followed, Saint-Germain-des-Prés continued to attract some of the most influential figures in French cultural life, becoming a symbol of Parisian creativity, intellectual freedom and artistic expression.
FROM ART AND CULTURE TO FASHION AND LUXURY
After establishing itself as a centre of art and literature, Saint-Germain-des-Prés also became an increasingly desirable destination for fashion and luxury.
From the 1960s onwards, prestigious designers such as Yves Saint Laurent and Sonia Rykiel helped strengthen the neighbourhood’s reputation for Parisian elegance and style.
Today, the surrounding streets are home to boutiques associated with internationally renowned luxury houses, including Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Cartier, Hermès and Ralph Lauren.
This remarkable combination of history, culture, fashion and refinement gives Saint-Germain-des-Prés its distinctive character.
JANTHRA SPA: A HAVEN OF WELL-BEING IN A HISTORIC SETTING
It was in this exceptional neighbourhood that Janthra Spa opened its doors in 2019, within a historic building dating back to the late 15th century, where original stonework has been carefully preserved.
We feel incredibly fortunate to welcome our guests into such a special place, surrounded by centuries of Parisian history.
Here, the timeless charm of Saint-Germain-des-Prés meets the authentic traditions of Thai massage, creating a unique setting for relaxation and well-being.
After enjoying a soothing Thai massage or a relaxing Jacuzzi experience, we warmly encourage you to explore our wonderful neighbourhood.
Discover its extraordinary abbey church, its legendary cafés, its charming narrow streets and the countless traces of history waiting around every corner.
Whether you are visiting Paris for the first time or rediscovering the city, Saint-Germain-des-Prés offers an unforgettable glimpse into the very soul of Paris.
Welcome to Saint-Germain-des-Prés – and welcome to Janthra Spa, your sanctuary of Thai massage and well-being in the heart of Paris.
