Paris, France Guide

Paris, the capital of France, has a rich and dynamic history that has shaped it into one of the world’s most influential cities. Founded in the 3rd century BC by the Parisii, a Celtic tribe, the city was later conquered by the Romans in 52 BC, who named it Lutetia. Under Roman rule, it grew as a trade and administrative center. In the 5th century, after the fall of the Roman Empire, Paris became the capital of the Frankish Kingdom and developed into a key political and cultural hub in medieval Europe.

Throughout the Middle Ages, Paris flourished as a center of learning, with the establishment of the University of Paris in the 12th century. The city played a central role in the French monarchy, and iconic landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral were built. Paris witnessed significant political upheavals during the French Revolution in the late 18th century, becoming the heart of revolutionary activity. The city’s culture of intellectualism and artistic expression continued to grow in the 19th century, during the reign of Napoleon and later the French Empire. The city also underwent major transformations under Baron Haussmann, who redesigned much of Paris’s architecture and infrastructure, creating the iconic boulevards and public spaces we recognize today.

In the 20th century, Paris became a global center for art, fashion, and intellectual thought. The city was home to influential movements such as Surrealism and Existentialism, and artists like Picasso and writers like Hemingway found inspiration here. Paris’s role as a cultural epicenter continued post-World War II, as it attracted creatives from around the world. Today, Paris remains renowned for its art, architecture, history, and cuisine. Landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Champs-Élysées continue to draw millions of visitors each year, making Paris a symbol of elegance, culture, and innovation.