With more than 2,000 years of history, Paris is an architecture enthusiast's paradise. From its fabled arches and Beaux Arts institutions to its Gothic cathedrals and luxe gardens, the city is a veritable time capsule, filled to the brim with awe-inspiring historic sites and landmarks . While many travelers can easily identify some of Paris’s most famous monuments, it takes some know-how to discern just which sites are the oldest. We’ve rounded up five of the longest-standing structures for those vacationers looking to add an extra layer of history to their experience in the City of Light.

Notre Dame

Construction on this famed medieval cathedral began almost 1,000 years ago, in 1163. The building has been the site of many significant events, including the 1572 wedding of King Henry IV and Marguerite de Valois and the crowning of Napoléon I as Emperor of the French in 1804.

3 Rue Volta

This half-timbered house was once believed to be the oldest extant home in Paris, dating from the 14th century. Though researchers in the 1970s determined that the building was, in fact, a medieval replica from the 17th century, the nearly 400-year-old structure is still a window into the architectural traditions of that time. Today it is occupied by a Chinese restaurant.

La Sorbonne

Founded in 1252 by Robert de Sorbon, the chaplain and confessor of King Louis IX, the Sorbonne is one of Europe’s most prestigious and historic universities. In 1469 France’s first printing press was installed at the institution with help from King Louis XI’s librarian, Guillaume Fichet. Honoré de Balzac and Pope Alexander V are among the school’s alumni.

51 and 52 Rue Montmorency

Built in 1407, this Marais district building was once the residence of alchemist and manuscript seller Nicolas Flamel and his wife, Pernelle. Today the ground-floor space operates as a restaurant, Auberge Nicolas Flamel.

La Conciergerie

The oldest remaining part of the Palais de la Cité, this sprawling medieval palace dates from the 13th century. The site has served as a royal residence, a courthouse, and a prison—it was the last to house Marie Antoinette.