Paris is the capital city of France, which is located in western Europe. The city is in the northern part of the country and is located along the Seine River. Paris is known for its history, luxury brands, and award-winning restaurants.
Paris was founded in approximately 259 B.C. by the Parisii, a Celtic tribe that created a settlement along the Seine River. It was eventually conquered by the Romans and still stood after the Roman Empire fell in 476 A.D. By that time, the city was being called its present-day name of Paris. It was made a capital city in 508 A.D. by Colvis, the King of Franks.
Beginning in the twelfth century, changes to Paris began taking place as a result of uprisings and insurrections related to infrastructure discrepancies, including those against merchants and taxes. The city was impacted by the Bubonic Plague in 1328 and was under the rule of the English for a short time between 1431 and 1436.
Between the late fifteenth century through the early seventeenth century, France experienced a renaissance. Paris became a place for progress in art, architecture, and science. As time went on, leaders such as Napoleon III took action to modernize Paris with public parks, sewer systems, and other public projects.
Paris continued expanding and developing, even opening its first subway line in 1900. The first World War caused some damage to the city, and many residents fled to other areas. A depression hit the city and was followed by World War II, during which time the Germans occupied the city. Paris was liberated by the Allies in 1944, and the city became a hub for arts and culture. Today, Paris is still known for its art and luxury as well as a strong labor movement, which often sees protests and strikes.
Some of the top sites in Paris include the following:
- The Eiffel Tower
- The Louvre
- Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Versailles Palace
- Latin Quarter
- Seine River
- Musée d'Orsay
- Arc de Triomphe
