The Palais de Justice in Paris, located on the Île de la Cité, has a rich and complex history, spanning centuries:
Origins and Early History
The site dates back to Roman times when it served as a seat of government. This tradition continued under the Merovingian and Capetian dynasties.
By the 10th century, it became the residence of French monarchs, with judicial functions centralized there.
Medieval Period
Under King Robert II, the palace became home to the Curia Regis (King’s Council). Philip IV expanded it with the Grand Chamber for judicial and parliamentary functions.
 In 1358, following unrest led by Étienne Marcel, Charles V moved the royal residence elsewhere. However, judicial activities remained at the palace.
French Revolution
During the Revolution, the Grand Chamber housed the Revolutionary Tribunal, infamous for sentencing thousands to the guillotine during the Reign of Terror.
19th Century Reconstruction
The palace underwent major renovations between 1847 and 1871. Architects Joseph-Louis Duc and Honoré Daumet rebuilt much of the structure after damage caused by arson during the Paris Commune in 1871.
The Conciergerie, part of the complex, was later opened to the public in 1914.
 
The Palais de Justice remains central to France’s judicial system and reflects its evolution through layers of architecture from Gothic to neo-Renaissance styles