The 10 Most Interesting Facts about Paris

Paris, known as the “City of Lights,” is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum, Paris is full of history, culture and charm. Here are 10 interesting facts about the city that you may not know:

1. Paris was originally a Roman City

Paris was founded in the 3rd century BC by a Celtic people called the Parisii. The Romans conquered the city in 52 BC and renamed it Lutetia. Today, you can still see remnants of the Roman settlement in the city center.

2. The Eiffel Tower was originally intended to be temporary

The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 as the entrance arch to the 1889 World’s Fair. At the time, it was the tallest man-made structure in the world. It was intended to be dismantled after the fair, but it was saved because it proved useful for communication purposes.

3. Paris has a beach

Every summer since 2001, Paris has transformed the banks of the Seine River into a beach. Called “Paris Plages,” the city imports sand and palm trees to create this temporary urban beach.

4. The Louvre is the largest museum in the world

The Louvre Museum in Paris is the largest museum in the world, with over 380,000 objects and 35,000 works of art on display. The museum was originally built in the 12th century as a fortress, and it became a public museum during the French Revolution.

5. Paris was the first city in the world to have street lighting

In 1667, Paris became the first city in the world to have street lighting. The streets were lit with wax candles placed in glass lanterns.

6. The Moulin Rouge opened in 1889

The Moulin Rouge is a cabaret in Paris that opened in 1889. It is famous for its can-can dancers and has been featured in numerous films and television shows.

7. The Catacombs of Paris contain the remains of six million people

The Catacombs of Paris are a network of underground tunnels and chambers that contain the remains of over six million people. The catacombs were created to alleviate overcrowding in Paris cemeteries.

8. French was not always the official language of France

French became the official language of France in 1539, under King Francis I. Before that, Latin was the official language of the country.

9. Paris has over 400 parks and gardens

Paris is known for its beautiful parks and gardens. The city has over 400 parks and gardens, including the famous Luxembourg Gardens and the Tuileries Gardens.

10. The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon

The Arc de Triomphe is a famous monument in Paris that was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to celebrate his victories. The monument is 164 feet tall and has amazing views of the city from the top.

In conclusion, Paris is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. These 10 interesting facts about the city are just the tip of the iceberg, and there’s so much more to discover in this amazing destination.

The Insider’s Guide to Paris: Local Attractions, Dining Spots, Cultural Experiences, and More

Paris, the City of Lights, is one of the most romantic, historic, and cultured cities in the world. Home to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris offers endless opportunities for exploration, discovery, and adventure. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this insider’s guide has everything you need to know to make the most of your trip. From local attractions and dining spots to cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, this guide will help you experience the best of Paris.

Local Attractions

No visit to Paris is complete without seeing the following local attractions:

• Eiffel Tower: This iconic landmark offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck. Book tickets in advance to avoid long waiting lines.
• Louvre Museum: Home to the famous Mona Lisa, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers.
• Notre-Dame Cathedral: This Gothic masterpiece is undergoing renovations following a fire in 2019, but is still worth a visit.
• Palace of Versailles: Take a day trip from Paris to explore the opulent palace and its stunning gardens.
• Arc de Triomphe: Located at the end of the famous Champs-Élysées, this triumphal arch honors those who fought for France.

Dining Spots

Paris is known for its world-class cuisine, from Michelin-starred restaurants to quaint cafes. Here are some dining spots you should not miss:

• Le Comptoir du Relais: Located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this bustling bistro is famous for its steak-frites.
• Café de Flore: Hemingway’s favorite cafe, this historic spot boasts beautiful art deco decor and delicious pastries.
• Chez L’Ami Jean: If you’re in the mood for Basque cuisine, head to this popular spot for hearty dishes like duck confit and piperade.
• Septime: This Michelin-starred restaurant in the 11th arrondissement offers creative, contemporary French cuisine.
• Le Jules Verne: Located on the Eiffel Tower, this restaurant offers stunning views of the city and a menu designed by Alain Ducasse.

Cultural Experiences

From art to fashion to music, Paris is a cultural mecca. Here are some experiences you should consider:

• Art Museums: In addition to the Louvre, Paris is home to many other world-class museums, such as the Musée d’Orsay and Centre Pompidou.
• Fashion Shows: Paris is home to famous fashion houses like Chanel, Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent. Check schedules to see if there are any fashion shows during your visit.
• Music Venues: Whether you’re into classical music, jazz, or rock, Paris has a vibrant music scene. Check out venues like La Cigale and Olympia.
• Catacombs: For a spooky experience, head underground to explore the catacombs, where the remains of millions of Parisians are buried.
• Château de Fontainebleau: This beautiful palace is located just outside of Paris and was once a favorite residence of Napoleon.

Local History

Paris has a rich history that spans centuries. Here are some historical sites to visit:

• La Sainte-Chapelle: This Gothic chapel is a masterpiece of medieval architecture and home to one of the largest collections of stained glass windows in the world.
• Pantheon: Originally built as a church, this neoclassical building now houses the remains of famous French figures like Voltaire and Marie Curie.
• Musée de l’Armée: Located in Les Invalides, this museum is dedicated to the military history of France, with exhibits ranging from medieval knights to modern warfare.
• Place de la Concorde: This plaza was the site of the execution of Louis XVI during the French Revolution.
• Musée de la Libération de Paris – Musée du Général Leclerc – Musée Jean Moulin: This museum is dedicated to the French Resistance during World War II and the liberation of Paris.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something a little less touristy, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

• Coulée Verte René-Dumont: This elevated park is located on an abandoned railway line and offers beautiful views of the city.
• Canal Saint-Martin: This picturesque canal is a favorite spot for locals and is lined with trendy boutiques and cozy cafes.
• Le Marais: This historic neighborhood offers beautiful architecture, trendy shops, and delicious food.
• Père Lachaise Cemetery: Home to the graves of famous figures like Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde, this cemetery is a peaceful spot for reflection and contemplation.
• Rue des Martyrs: This street is a local favorite for food shopping, with a mix of small boutiques offering high-quality food products.

Paris is a city that can be visited time and time again, offering endless opportunities for exploration, discovery and adventure. With this insider’s guide, you can be sure you won’t miss out on anything during your visit.