Place de la Concorde

Every trip to Paris simply isn't complete without a stop at the Louvre. This iconic museum is bursting with treasures that span centuries and continents. It showcases Western art from the Middle Ages up to 1848, alongside fascinating collections from ancient oriental, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, and Roman civilizations. Plus, it gives a nod to graphic and Islamic arts too. As you wander from one exhibit to the next, this former royal palace unveils its masterpieces: picture yourself face to face with the enigmatic Mona Lisa, the dramatic Raft of the Medusa, the timeless beauty of Venus de Milo, and the striking Winged Victory of Samothrace. In total, there are a whopping 35,000 works waiting to be explored! The Louvre's very walls are steeped in history, with its architecture reflecting influences from an 800-year timeline. It began as a medieval fortress in the 12th century, and now it boasts the modern marvel of Pei's glass pyramid, completed in 1989. The newest addition, dedicated to Islamic arts, was crafted by architects Mario Bellini and Rudy Ricciotti. This section features a stunning glass canopy that ripples like waves, covering the Visconti courtyard and flooding the 2,800 m² wing with natural light. Here's a tip: visiting the museum at night is particularly magical. The crowds thin out and you can enjoy breathtaking views of Pei’s glass pyramid, the elegant Cour Carrée, and the serene Seine under the night sky.

The history of the Eiffel Tower is a fascinating piece of France's national heritage. For decades, it has stood as the symbol of both Paris and France itself. Interestingly, when Gustave Eiffel completed its construction in 1889, the tower was originally intended to be a temporary fixture in the Parisian skyline and was not initially beloved by Parisians. Let's explore the evolution and story of the iconic Eiffel Tower. This beloved tourist destination has graced the Parisian skies for over 130 years now. Although it is now synonymous with France, it wasn't actually built to last forever. The pivotal moment in the tower's history was during the 1889 Universal Exposition. Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, a competition was held to construct "an iron tower with a square base, 125 meters wide and 300 meters high" on the Champ-de-Mars. Out of 107 submissions, Gustave Eiffel's design was selected. He was joined by engineers Maurice Koechlin and Emile Nouguier, along with architect Stephen Sauvestre. What many might not know is that the Eiffel Tower was initially met with criticism from some of Paris's most prominent artists and intellectuals, who considered it an eyesore. Yet, this iron marvel has stood the test of time, becoming a beacon of architectural brilliance and a must-see for travelers. Today, the Eiffel Tower is not just a monument but a testament to visionary engineering and a beloved part of Paris's cultural fabric.

The Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris stands as a stunning testament to Gothic architecture and is the most visited monument in France. Nestled at the far end of the Île de la Cité, its construction began in the 13th century and wrapped up in the 15th. Despite suffering significant damage during the French Revolution, it was beautifully restored in the 19th century by the renowned architect Viollet-le-Duc. Visitors flock here to marvel at the intricate stained glass and rose windows, the majestic towers, the elegant steeple, and the iconic gargoyles. Adventurous souls can explore the Notre-Dame treasury and even tackle the climb up the towers for a sweeping, panoramic view of Paris. Back in 2013, Notre-Dame celebrated its impressive 850th anniversary. This milestone was marked by a series of special events, and the cathedral welcomed eight new bells along with a grand new great bell. Fun fact: road distances from Paris in France are measured from point zero, located right on the cathedral's forecourt. The cathedral's location is not just a geographic marker; it's a cultural hub where history and modernity coexist. Nearby, you'll find charming cafés perfect for a post-visit coffee and a leisurely stroll along the Seine adds a touch of romance to your day. Whether you're a history buff or simply someone who appreciates timeless beauty, Notre-Dame offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of Paris.

Commissioned by Napoleon I, the Arc de Triomphe commands a majestic presence over the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Construction kicked off in 1806 and wrapped up in 1836, a full 15 years after Napoleon's passing. Visitors can venture to the top of this iconic monument. The view from up there is nothing short of breathtaking: a sweeping panorama from The Louvre through Concorde Square all the way to the Grand Arch of La Défense. It's easily one of the most stunning vistas in all of Paris. The monument is perched on a site known as Place de l'Étoile, named for the colorful star pattern embedded in the pavement of the roundabout below. Standing at 50 meters tall, 45 meters wide, and 22 meters thick, the arch is adorned with intricate bas-reliefs depicting battles from the French First Republic and Empire periods (1789-1815). If you're planning a visit, consider timing your trip to catch the sunset. The golden light casts a magical glow over the city, making it an unforgettable experience. And don't forget to explore the small museum inside the arch, which offers fascinating insights into its history and construction.

Step into the newly revamped Grévin Museum in Paris, where the past and present of this captivating city come alive in spectacular detail. Picture yourself amidst the grandeur of the 20th century's pivotal events, immerse in French history, and catch up on the latest happenings. Wander through iconic Parisian locales like the brasserie, the theater, and artists' studios. These are the legendary spots where you might find yourself mingling with the "Tout Paris" elite. The museum's allure doesn't end there: it boasts a collection of 300 wax figures, each ready to strike a pose with you, creating memories that will last a lifetime. If you're looking for a unique experience, the museum also hosts special events throughout the year. Imagine attending a themed evening or an exclusive exhibit unveiling, where you can enjoy the ambiance of Parisian culture in a whole new way. The Grévin Museum offers a delightful blend of history and modernity, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the City of Lights.

An evening at Le Moulin Rouge in Paris promises to be a night you’ll never forget. Known as the world’s most famous cabaret, this iconic venue has been dazzling audiences since the early 1900s. It has played host to legends like Edith Piaf, Yves Montand, Ginger Rogers, Liza Minnelli, and Frank Sinatra. And you can't overlook the French Cancan era with stars like La Goulue, Josephine Baker, Mistinguett, and Maurice Chevalier. To start your evening, you can enjoy a delightful dinner, followed by a captivating cabaret show at either 9 or 11 p.m. The FEERIE performance takes you on a whirlwind journey through time and across continents, all without leaving your seat. The topless dancers bring to life folktales from around the globe, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Of course, you’ll also witness the authentic French Cancan, a dance that is as spirited as it is iconic. The show is punctuated with impressive acts by acrobats and clowns, each displaying remarkable talent. Nestled in the heart of the Montmartre district, Le Moulin Rouge is not just a show venue, but a historical gem. The iconic red windmill atop the building is a beacon that draws visitors from all over the world. This area of Paris is also home to charming cafes and bustling streets, making it the perfect spot to explore before your unforgettable night at the cabaret.

The Palais de Tokyo is a gem of art deco architecture from 1937 that underwent a stunning transformation in 2001, thanks to the visionary French architects Anne Lacaton and Jean-Philippe Vassal. They embraced an industrial-chic aesthetic, featuring concrete floors, walls, and ceilings that set a raw and edgy tone. Uniquely, it's the only museum in Paris where you can soak up culture until the stroke of midnight. Nestled right next to the Musée d'Art Moderne at the Trocadéro, the Palais de Tokyo serves as a vibrant hub for contemporary art. Forget stuffy permanent collections; this place is all about giving experimental artists a playground in the heart of Paris to express their creative flair. You'll find an ever-changing array of installations and interactive art that make each visit feel like a brand-new adventure. The museum's interior is like no other, with its expansive, open space that feels a bit like a chic construction site. Instead of a traditional ticket counter, you'll find a quirky trailer serving as the ticket booth. It's all part of the charm. And here's a fun tip: after soaking in the art, head to the rooftop terrace. It offers a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower, perfect for snapping that envy-inducing Instagram shot.

The Musée du Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac carries a legacy that spans over 200 years, brimming with history, enrichment, study, and preservation of public collections. This remarkable museum houses nearly 370,000 works from Africa, the Near East, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Each piece showcases the incredible richness and cultural diversity of non-European civilizations, stretching from the Neolithic period (around 10,000 B.C.) all the way to the 20th century. Wandering through its halls, you'll find yourself captivated by the stories each artifact tells. The museum's architecture itself is a marvel, with lush gardens surrounding the building, offering a serene escape in the heart of Paris. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious about the world, the Musée du Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac promises an unforgettable journey through time and across continents.

The Tuileries Gardens get their name from the tile factories that once occupied the site before Queen Catherine de Medici decided to build the Palais des Tuileries in 1564. Fast forward to 1664, and André Le Nôtre, the celebrated gardener for King Louis XIV, transformed these gardens into the stunning French formal style we admire today. Nestled between the iconic Louvre and the bustling Place de la Concorde, the gardens offer a delightful blend of tranquility and culture. Parisians and tourists alike can wander among statues by Maillol, Rodin, and Giacometti, making it a haven for art enthusiasts. Imagine spending an afternoon lounging by one of the two serene ponds, soaking up the beauty and history surrounding you. Don't miss the Musée de l’Orangerie in the southwest corner, where Monet's masterpieces await your admiration. From March through December, you can join free French tours, adding depth to your exploration. For those with a sweet tooth and a love for a festive atmosphere, the Fête des Tuileries runs from June to August, complete with candyfloss and fairground rides. Fun fact: the gardens were originally intended as a private sanctuary for royalty before opening to the public, making each visit feel like a walk through history.

В Париже остановились на острове Saint-Louis, рядом с районом Le Marais. Квартира на самом верху, на пятом этаже, в мансадре. Внизу была набережная Сены, на которой мы по вечерам пили шампанское

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