Hôtel de la Païva

The Hôtel de la Païva, located at 25 Avenue des Champs-Élysées in Paris, is a stunning example of a 19th-century hôtel particulier, built between 1856 and 1866 by the courtesan Esther Lachmann, known as La Païva. Born in modest circumstances in Moscow, La Païva became a wealthy socialite through her marriages, notably to a Prussian count. The mansion is renowned for its exquisite Italian Renaissance architecture, featuring a unique yellow onyx staircase and luxurious furnishings, including a remarkable onyx bathtub. Historically, it hosted many prominent figures of the time and is now home to the Travellers Club of Paris. The building's design includes a clever double entrance for cabs, enhancing its opulent charm. Visitors and researchers alike will find the history and artistry of the Hôtel de la Païva a fascinating glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of 19th-century Paris.