Database: Hôtel Dieu

This is the oldest hospital in Paris - dating to the mid-7th century. It was originally started as a refuge for the poor and sick, funded by the nobility as a charity. By the time of the revolution it had earned a terrible reputation. Those who died here were more likely to have contracted a disease inside its wall than outside.*
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* I hope that was their corporate slogan.
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The hospital has undergone numerous renovations over the years, but it still serves as an emergency center for the first 9 arrondisements of Paris. **
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** They must be thrilled.
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