Dust off your passports and prepare for an adventure, time travellers, because we’re heading to Paris, on January 31, 1893, to witness the birth of Dame Freya Stark, one of the 20th century’s most intrepid explorers and travel writers. Born into a cosmopolitan world of art and intellect, Freya Stark would go on to chart her own path, exploring remote corners of the Middle East, documenting her journeys, and breaking societal norms along the way.
This city break offers a glimpse into the origins of a remarkable woman whose wanderlust and curiosity inspired generations of adventurers.
Why Visit Paris in January 1893?
The Paris of 1893 is a city in its Belle Époque prime. It’s a time of artistic innovation, scientific breakthroughs, and vibrant café culture. Against this backdrop, in a modest home near the Seine, Freya Stark was born to a British father and an Italian mother. Her early years were filled with artistic influence and intellectual curiosity, setting the stage for her extraordinary life.
Visiting Paris on this date is not just a chance to witness Stark’s birth but also an opportunity to soak in the energy of a city alive with creativity and possibility.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: Belle Époque Paris
Start your journey with a stroll along the Seine, passing landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, which had been unveiled just four years earlier at the 1889 Exposition Universelle. While it’s still a controversial addition to the skyline, its iron latticework symbolises the modernity of the era.
Next, visit the École des Beaux-Arts, where Freya’s mother studied art. This prestigious institution shaped the artistic sensibilities of the Stark family, fostering Freya’s appreciation for culture and beauty.
For lunch, stop at a boulangerie for a flaky croissant or a hearty baguette sandwich, and pair it with a café au lait. Let the charm of Parisian life sweep you away.
Day 2: A Glimpse of Freya’s Future
Delve into Freya Stark’s world of adventure by visiting the Musée Guimet, dedicated to Asian art and culture. Here, you’ll find treasures from the very regions Freya would later explore, from Persia to Yemen. Imagine how these artefacts might have inspired her journeys.
Round out your day at a bustling Parisian salon, where intellectuals gather to debate art, politics, and philosophy. It’s the perfect setting to ponder Freya’s future as a woman who would challenge conventions and embrace the unknown.
Who Was Dame Freya Stark?
Dame Freya Stark (1893–1993) was a trailblazing explorer, writer, and cartographer who ventured into the Middle East at a time when few women dared to travel alone. Fluent in multiple languages, including Arabic and Persian, she chronicled her journeys in vivid detail, producing over two dozen books and earning accolades for her contributions to geography and literature.
Her adventures took her to remote and often dangerous places, including the Valleys of the Assassins in Iran and the ancient frankincense trade routes of southern Arabia. Stark’s work not only documented the landscapes and cultures she encountered but also fostered understanding and connection across borders.
Why Freya Stark’s Birth Matters
Freya Stark’s life and legacy are a testament to the power of curiosity, resilience, and a pioneering spirit. As one of the first Western women to travel extensively in the Middle East, she opened doors to a world that was largely unknown to her contemporaries. Her writing, characterised by wit, empathy, and keen observation, remains a treasure trove for historians, travellers, and dreamers alike.
Her birth in Paris, a city synonymous with creativity and bold ideas, feels fitting for a woman who would redefine the boundaries of exploration.
Travel Tips for 1893 Paris
- Embrace the Belle Époque Fashion: Think tailored suits, long skirts, and wide-brimmed hats to blend in with the stylish locals.
- Brush Up on Your French: While many Parisians are open to visitors, a polite “Bonjour” or “Merci” will go a long way.
- Take a Sketchbook: Channel your inner artist like Freya’s mother and capture the beauty of Paris in your own way.
What’s on the Menu?
Savour the flavours of Belle Époque Paris with these iconic treats:
- Quiche Lorraine: A savoury tart that’s perfect for a light meal.
- Pain au Chocolat: A decadent pastry for those with a sweet tooth.
- Champagne: Toast to Freya’s adventurous spirit with a glass of bubbly.
Fun Facts About Freya Stark
- Did you know? Stark didn’t publish her first book, The Valleys of the Assassins, until she was in her 40s, proving it’s never too late to start a new chapter.
- Odd but true: Stark often travelled with little more than a notebook, a compass, and an indomitable will.
- Legacy: She lived to be 100 years old, a fitting testament to her enduring spirit and zest for life.
Want to Know More?
Books
- The Valleys of the Assassins and Other Persian Travels by Freya Stark.
- Freya Stark: A Biography by Jane Fletcher Geniesse.
Articles
- “Freya Stark: Explorer, Writer, Legend” in National Geographic.
- “Pioneering Women of the Middle East: The Legacy of Freya Stark” by History Today.
Web Resources
- The Royal Geographical Society: www.rgs.org
- Freya Stark Archive: www.freya-stark.com
The Final Word
January 31, 1893, marks the birth of a woman whose life would embody the spirit of exploration and discovery. Visiting Paris on this date offers a glimpse into the beginnings of Dame Freya Stark and the Belle Époque city that shaped her early years.
Whether you’re strolling along the Seine, exploring Asian artefacts at the Musée Guimet, or toasting her legacy with a glass of champagne, this city break is an inspiring tribute to one of history’s greatest adventurers.
Have you charted unknown territories or followed the paths of great explorers? Share your tales—we’ll toast your adventures with a croissant and a hearty “Bon voyage!”
