Tourist Information
Public auctions have existed since Ancient Roman times. They disappeared with the fall of the Roman Empire to be reborn in Paris around the year 1250. If auctions are called public, it really is because they are open to everyone, professionals or amateurs, occasional or regular customers. In Paris, the institution among auction houses is unquestionably the Hôtel Drouot, which opened its doors on 1st June 1852. With its 16 auction rooms, it is the world's main art market. The Hôtel Drouot is renowned for its sales of items dating from Antiquity and the Art Nouveau period. Drouot has also opened two auction rooms for prestige sales in Avenue Montaigne. To experience the extraordinary atmosphere of the auction, why not pay a visit Rue Drouot in the IXth arrondissement of Paris. http://www.drouot.fr/
