Along with the Sainte-Chapelle, la Conciergerie was part of the royal Palace here on the Ile de la Cité. The gothic vaulted Salle des Gens d'Armes and massive kitchens with four huged fireplace remain from the medieval palace, which gradually became a prison under the watch of the Concierge.

Outside, the Tour de l'Horloge, built in 1370 and carefully restored, was the first public clock in Paris.