This venerable institution, although somewhat dusty at the edges, remains a heeded voice in certain French circles.
Founded by Richelieu in 1635, the Academie‘s rule over the standards of the French language, which includes a high level of protectionism, is embodied in the Dictionnaire de la Langue Française.
The Académie‘s weekly meetings, which once a year become solemn occasions in the famous domed hall, are held at the Institut de France, an edifice that you cannot fail to spot in its prime Left Bank position overlooking the Pont des Arts.
