
Paris
Paris ...
city of culture and history
Paris for centuries has been one of the most
inspiring cities in the world. From its vibrant culture to its interesting
history, Paris has lived up to its reputation.
Paris was founded by a tribe of Celtic Gauls
known as the Parisii around the end of the third century BC. The Romans and the
Gauls fought over this land for centuries when in 52 BC Julius Cesar’s legion
took power over the territory. This now Roman town was later introduced to
Christianity in the second century AD. In the fifth century the Roman party was
defeated by the Franks. In 508 AD the Gauls were once again re-united under the
Frankish king Clovis I. He made Paris the capital of this newly formed kingdom,
naming it after the original Parisii tribe.
Paris prospered during the middle ages with the
construction of the cathedral of Notre Dame. But later Paris would see invader
after invader claim power over their land. It’s seen good and bad rulers. The
history of Paris is a story of people fighting for their beliefs, ideas, and
world conquest. Paris has undeniably become the center of French civilization.
In the 1990s the city came under the
international spot light for two events. The auto-accident death of Dianna,
Princess of Wales and France’s first-ever World Cup victory (3-0) over the
favored Brazil. Both events sparked emotions that would show the world the
compassion and great love this great city has to offer.
Paris is located in France which is positioned
on the western edge of the European continent. It is the capital of France.
The city is broken up into different sections. The “Left Bank” is located to
the left of the Seine River, a river that cuts Paris into two halves. Opposite
the Left Bank is the “Right Bank.” These names are more than a geographic
location; they are also used to describe a particular style of life, look, etc.
The city is further divided into twenty “arrondissement” or districts. The
first is found in the center of the city and the others are laid out in a
clockwise manner.
The average annual temperature in Paris is
about 53 degrees Fahrenheit. The average rainfall in Paris is 25.2 inches. The
weather here can be characterized as cold winters, hot and stormy summers with
moderate precipitation.
Attractions in Paris include the Notre Dame, a
cathedral that is said to be the greatest achievement of Gothic architecture.
The structure took nearly 200 years to complete and can accommodate 6000
worshipers. The Sainte Chapelle was consecrated in 1248 and was built with the
purpose to accommodate the allegedly Jesus’ crown of thorns. The legendary
Effel Tower, built in 1889, stands 1050 feet in the air. At one point it held
the record for the tallest structure in the world.
Aside from these more notable attractions,
there are many recommended attractions, events, etc. Museums you can check out
include the Institut du Monde Arabe which showcases everything relating to the
Arab world, the Musee Rodin, and the Musee de l’Erotisme. For sightseeing
purposes you can visit the Beaubourg- Centre Georges Pompidou a cultural center
and the Musee du Louvre. If some fun in the sun is what you’re looking for then
stop over at the Disneyland Paris. Or you can visit the Jardin des Plantes, a
botanical garden. Whatever your taste for fun and adventure, Paris is sure to
have what you need.