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 a Moscow ghetto, she rose to prominence through strategic marriages, ultimately funding the construction of this luxurious mansion. The hôtel is renowned for its exquisite yellow onyx staircase and lavish interiors, designed by architect Pierre Manguin and adorned with works from notable sculptors. La Païva hosted many famous figures of her time, including writers and politicians, before her life took a dramatic turn leading to her departure from France. Today, the building serves as the Travellers Club of Paris, preserving its historical significance while showcasing its architectural beauty, making it a fascinating site for tourists and researchers alike.