“See Paris and die!” – Ilya Ehrenburg calls in his book. He was so captivated by the atmosphere of the city that he wished every person to see the sights of Paris at least once in their life. In addition to historical monuments, people come here for fine cuisine, wine and cheese tasting, cabarets and walks along the narrow streets of one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

Historical landmarks of Paris

The Arc de Triomphe was erected in 1836 and is dedicated to Napoleon Bonaparte's victory at the Battle of Austerlitz. On four sides the building is decorated with sculptural groups, above which are engraved the names of the thirty most brilliant victories of the French army general.

The structure is made in antique style and corresponds to the Italian original of a similar arch in Italy, where it was erected during the reign of the Roman Emperor Titus. Unfortunately, Bonaparte never saw the final version of the monumental monument - construction ended after his death.

The Louvre Museum has served as the residence of French kings since the sixteenth century. Louis XIV lost interest in the palace and opened a workshop for artists within its walls, and Napoleon Bonaparte supplemented the Louvre collection with paintings from the conquered territories. The appearance of this outstanding landmark of Paris is not accidental - the architects were inspired to create the prototype of the Cheops pyramid by the Egyptian trophies of the commander, which formed the basis for the museum.

The museum contains more than three hundred thousand exhibits, thirty-five thousand of which you can freely look at - the “Mona Lisa” by Leonardo da Vinci, the “Coronation of Napoleon” by Jacques Louis David, the statue of the Venus de Milo and the Nike of Samothrace.

Notre Dame Cathedral glorified the novel of the same name by Victor Hugo. The coronation, wedding and funeral services of emperors took place in the Catholic church; the first parliament of France met here and the disadvantaged found shelter. The construction of the famous church lasted almost 200 years - during this time he changed several leaders, each of whom rebuilt the temple to his own taste.

As a result of reconstructions, the temple was endowed with a combination of Gothic and Romanesque styles. Several legends are associated with the cathedral - it is believed that only the devil himself could create a building of such unprecedented beauty. On the day when the forged gates were finally ready, the castle defied the architect until it was sprinkled with holy water.

The Pantheon was a church in the 18th century and has an amazing history. Louis XV, before taking command of the troops, unexpectedly fell ill and, due to the low level of medicine in those days, the only thing left for him was to turn to the holy Reverend Genevieve with prayers for health. After some time, the king recovered and promised to build her the most beautiful church in Paris in gratitude for her help.

However, during the revolution, Christian churches were rapidly destroyed, as a result of which the temple was turned into a burial place for famous personalities. The ashes of Count Mirabeau, Victor Hugo, Raphael and other famous people of France are kept within the walls of the Pantheon to this day.

The Sacré-Coeur Basilica is one of the most important churches in the country, built in memory of the defeat in the Franco-Prussian War. It was believed that over many years of moral decay, God deprived the people of France of blessings and to atone for their sins it was necessary to build a new church - since then the Sacré-Coeur temple has been included in the sights of Paris.

In order to get to the observation deck of the building, which is located at an altitude of four hundred meters, you will need to overcome 237 steps. The inside of the building is decorated with stained glass windows and mosaics, and outside - statues of Joan of Arc, St. Louis and St. Peter. Tourists have a tradition associated with the latter - if they want to return to Paris, they must stroke the apostle’s foot.

The Palace of Versailles was originally a small village near Paris and only then a luxurious castle arose in its place for Louis XIV, who built it after rumors about the majestic castle of the Minister of Finance. In 1661, construction began on the palace, into which the king invested about 250 billion euros.

Symmetrical gardens and parks, fountains, flower beds and alleys, green labyrinths and ancient sculptures decorate the area around Versailles. And from the windows of the palace there is a magnificent view of the Grand Canal, which is decorated with the figure of Apollo emerging from the water and facing the building.

The Luxembourg Palace combines Italian and French styles. Marie de' Medici hired Rubens himself to design it, who later also wrote a series of paintings about the queen. Later, the castle became a prison for prisoners, and then the residence of Napoleon Bonaparte.

The style of the palace, made in the spirit of the Renaissance and Baroque era, has been preserved to this day. Today, parliament meetings are held here, and a restaurant serving national cuisine is open on the street. There are excursions for adults, and puppet theaters, attractions, pony rides and other entertainment activities for children.

The Bourbon Palace was named after the ancient Bourbon family and was built for the daughter of Louis XIV. In 1756 it was bought by Louis XV, in 1798 Napoleon I ruled from here, and in 1814 Louis XVIII became its last owner. Today the French Parliament sits here, but it is nevertheless open to visitors and tourists.

The executions of representatives of the royal family were carried out on the square in front of the palace, and the manuscripts of Jean-Jacques Rousseau and the case of Joan of Arc are kept within its walls. The mansion is in a convenient location, so after being there, you can also look at the nearby Place de la Concorde and the Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine.

The Tuileries Palace began to be built in 1559 for Catherine de Medici. Chateau Tuileries consisted of three pavilions, two of which have survived to this day. Like most ancient palaces, the Tuileries is also famous for its bloodthirsty legends and ghosts. The powerful sorcerer, who was recruited by Catherine de Medici to kill her enemies with the help of black magic, learned too many secrets about the queen.

To avoid blackmail and potential threats from the warlock, the cruel ruler sent him to the gallows and imprisoned his body in underground catacombs. However, after a while, the sorcerer’s corpse disappeared and began to scare the inhabitants of the palace at night. The palace was the residence of Louis XVI and Napoleon Bonaparte. After the palace was burned in 1871, little was saved, but a few surviving structures can still be viewed.

The Conciergerie Palace is one of the oldest landmarks in Paris, built in the sixth century under King Clovis I. Until the 14th century, the most famous monarchs of France lived here, but later it was turned into a prison for prisoners, including Marie-Anutanette and Robespierre. The palace has a large list of iconic places: the Sainte-Chapelle Chapel in the Gothic style, the Warriors' Hall, where the king's guard dined, the kitchen outbuilding, the guardroom, where the council met and orders for execution were given.

Paris Street, the place where lepers awaited their sentence; Chapel and solitary confinement of Marie Antoinette; A corridor of prisoners and 4 famous towers, each of which has its own separate history. Tickets to the museum are inexpensive, but you will need a lot of time to explore it.

France is one of the most mysterious, beautiful and picturesque countries in the world. There are many architectural monuments of historical value here. Paris is the capital of France and is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

Below are the 25 most popular attractions in the capital - the city of Paris.

This most popular building among travelers is the tallest in the entire city. It amazes with its lightness and sophistication. The height of the tower is 320 meters. It consists of three levels. Steel and glass were used in the construction of this amazing structure. The choice of such material gives a light and delicate look to the entire tower.

2. Palace of Versailles

The grandiose structure is one of the main attractions of the city of Paris. Millions of tourists and travelers strive to get here. About a thousand rooms of the palace, the Hall of Mirrors, royal chambers and much more are open to visitors. The outside of the Palace of Versailles is lined with multi-colored marble, and there is a picturesque garden with ponds.

The Champs Elysees is one of the largest and busiest streets in the city, which stretches from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. Property prices here are very high, so only millionaires can afford to live on this street. There are mainly restaurants, cafes, office premises, boutiques and cinemas, and branded stores.

Disneyland is on the list of attractions in Paris for children. This huge territory is located 30 kilometers from Paris and includes a golf course, residential and office complexes, Disneyland Park, Walt Disney Studios Park. Adults and children will be able to visit attractions, castles, admire their favorite characters from famous cartoons and just have fun. There are also restaurants, hotels and shops here.

Notre Dame Cathedral was built in 1345. During further wars and battles, the appearance of the building changed significantly and in 1864 it was completely restored. Inside the cathedral there is a huge hall that seats about 9,000 people, five columns of impressive size. The external and internal appearance of the building leaves a lasting impression on visitors. A staircase has also been built that takes you up to the North Tower. Near the cathedral there is a “zero kilometer” mark. From here they calculate the distance to any point in the country.

6. Louvre

The Louvre is considered the largest and most famous museum on the entire planet. On a huge area the size of 22 football fields, there are many sculptures, several thousand paintings, jewelry, and ceramics. Millions of tourists dream of visiting this mysterious place to plunge into the world of art. Ten hours is not enough to completely walk through all the rooms. You need to have a plan of the building with you so as not to get lost in the numerous rooms. It is handed out at the entrance. Before visiting the Louvre, you will have to stand in a long line for tickets, but it is worth visiting the main attraction of Paris in any case.

The most interesting sights of Paris are the Luxembourg Gardens. It is located in the Latin Quarter and is represented by a combination of a marvelous garden and the Luxembourg Palace.

The palace itself is an architectural monument in Paris. In front of it are picturesque fountains, an open stage where many musical performers perform, playgrounds and attractions. The area is 25 hectares. Numerous tourists and city residents spend time and enjoy their holidays here.

It was originally called the Church of Saint Genevieve. Then the historical monument began to be called the burial room for great people. Its construction lasted about thirty years. His architectural style has never been determined, but the architect's drawings are unimaginable. The most famous and outstanding personalities who went down in the history of France and the whole world rest here. An interesting and mysterious part of the Pantheon is the Foucault pendulum. With its help, the scientist was able to prove to people that the earth rotates. Professional guides will tell you many interesting facts about this unique building from 1789.

9. Picasso Museum

This museum is one of the most famous attractions in Paris. It presents works by an outstanding artist of his time, as well as other equally famous personalities in the history of painting. The artist’s large collection includes 2,000 items, namely paintings, sculptures, collages, drawings, and ceramics. It also houses a collection of photographs of Picasso and his family, friends and relatives. His work inspires, surprises and leaves a lasting impression. Many tourists strive to visit this famous place.

10. Arc de Triomphe

The construction of this architectural monument began during the reign of Napoleon and lasted about thirty years. Unfortunately, the emperor himself and the creator of the arch could not live to see the completion of construction. The monument was made in the Roman style, a massive structure in the shape of a rectangle and an opening carved into it. The main attraction of Paris is considered the most grandiose building among similar buildings in the world.

On all sides, the Arc de Triomphe is decorated with bas-reliefs and painted with the names of officers who died as a result of hostilities. Now there is an eternal flame near the arch. Parades are held here and wreaths are laid in memory of veterans. Inside the arch there is a small museum that anyone can visit and learn about the history of its creation.

11. Place de la Concorde

This legendary and amazing place is located between the Champs Elysees and the Tuileries Garden. A luxurious fountain, beautiful statues and an obelisk will not leave any visitor indifferent. Two fountains 9 meters high are located at the base of the obelisk. Gilded structural elements give a majestic and luxurious look, and the figures of mythical creatures and heroes are fabulously beautiful and delight the eyes of others. The fountains are especially beautiful after sunset, when the streams of water are illuminated by spotlights.

The legendary obelisk of Luxor is made of pink marble and reaches a height of 23 meters. It took several years to deliver it to the square. The square is also home to eight monuments that surround the entire square and are the best attractions in Paris.

12. Grand Opera

Another name is Opera Garnier. It is located near the Louvre and is one of the main attractions in the center of Paris. An amazing element of the building is the luxurious staircase made of multi-colored marble. The theater has many rooms, staircases and corridors, dressing rooms for famous ballet and theater artists. The spacious and luxuriously decorated foyer of the theater attracts much attention. The interior is created in golden tones, which gives it an elegant and luxurious look. There is also a Mirror Salon. Here theater visitors can relax and just spend time.

Paris has always been surrounded by a romantic aura. This is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, the capital of lovers, the center of art and European palace architecture. Excursion programs in Paris are always rich, so every day you will discover the capital of France anew.

A river cruise along the Seine, admiring the solemn arches of Notre Dame de Paris, a picnic on the lawn in front of the Eiffel Tower, tasting the best French wines and cheeses - this is a short list of what you need to do during a trip to Paris.

All year round, the French capital hosts festivals and events, interesting theater premieres, and the best exhibitions in Europe. Paris is also a center for gastronomic tourism. Haute French cuisine is considered the most sophisticated in the world.

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What to see and where to go in Paris?

The most interesting and beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.

The most famous and recognizable symbol of Paris (and all of France), a place of pilgrimage for tourists from all over the world. The attraction is visited by several million people every year. The tower is a 324 meter high metal structure with elevators, an observation deck, restaurants and a lighthouse at the top. It was built by Gustav Eiffel and originally served as the entrance to the grounds of the 1900 Paris Universal Exhibition.

An architectural ensemble that served as the residence of French kings from the 16th to the 17th centuries. before the court moved to Versailles. The palace turned into a museum already in the 18th century. The first collections were collected from the personal funds of Francis I and Louis XIV. Now the Louvre collection includes more than 400 thousand exhibits, about 35 thousand are constantly exhibited. The museum houses the famous painting “Mona Lisa” created by da Vinci.

Architectural monument on Charles de Gaulle Square. Construction of the monument began in 1806 by order of Napoleon Bonaparte after the French victory in the Battle of Austerlitz. The work was completed after the death of the emperor in 1936. The arch was built by the architect Jean Chalgrin. On four sides the monument is decorated with sculptural groups dedicated to military victories and achievements of the French Revolution.

An outstanding example of Gothic architecture, the most visited cathedral in Paris. It began to be built in the 12th century on the site of the ancient pagan temple of Jupiter. By the middle of the 14th century, the work was completed. During the French Revolution, Notre Dame fell into disrepair, but in 1804 Napoleon Bonaparte chose it as the site of his coronation, thereby partially returning the temple to its former significance. The last restoration took place in the 1920s.

The temple is located on the Montmartre hill, it rises above Paris with snow-white domes. Construction began in the second half of the 19th century, when France was going through difficult times. The temple was erected on the site of a demolished Benedictine monastery, where Ignatius of Loyola himself, the future Grand Master of the Jesuit Order, took his vows. The basilica was built over 30 years using donations from Parisians and government funds.

The famous Parisian street, along with Fifth Avenue in New York and Oxford Street in London, is considered the most expensive street in the world. It stretches for almost 2 km. from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. Important events for the social life of France take place here; during the holidays, the street is elegantly decorated with garlands. Famous brand stores, restaurants, and hotels are concentrated on the Champs Elysees.

A palace and park ensemble in a Parisian suburb, the famous residence of French monarchs. Versailles appeared thanks to the efforts of Louis XIV in the 17th century. Gradually, from a modest hunting castle, under the supervision of architects Jules Hardouin-Mansart and Louis Levo, a luxurious palace grew, which became a symbol of the era of the “Sun King”. Many European monarchs took Versailles as a model for building their own residences.

The architectural complex was erected for the wife of Henry IV, Marie de Medici, in the 17th century. Now the French Senate meets in the palace, and the garden has become a popular place for walks among Parisians. Concerts and photo exhibitions are often held here. The attraction is located in the Latin Quarter of the city. Somewhere in this area lived the famous characters of A. Dumas from the immortal work “The Three Musketeers”.

Hill and famous area of ​​the French capital. A colorful place where representatives of Parisian bohemians lived, among whom were Andre Salmon, Picasso, Modigliani, Georges Braque. The modern art style of cubism was born in Montmartre. A considerable number of attractions are concentrated here: boulevards, temples, museums. People of art still gather in the main square of the district.

Located in the very center of the capital, in the middle of the Seine River. Several bridges connect the island with the rest of the city on all sides. The Cité is the very heart of Paris and is home to Notre-Dame de Paris, the Conciergerie Castle and the Sainte-Chapelle chapel. Celtic settlements on the island appeared in 300 BC. In 508 AD The fortress on the Cité became the residence of rulers from the Merovingian clan - the first dynasty of French rulers.

A square from the late 18th century, built on the site of the defensive fortress of the Bastille. For almost 400 years, the fort served as a prison for political prisoners and became a symbol of the hated monarchy for the people. After the famous storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, it was decided to dismantle the structure. In its place a wide square was paved. In 1840, the July Column was erected here in honor of the July Revolution.

An ancient district in the center of Paris, located around the Sorbonne University. Previously, mostly students settled here, since in addition to the Sorbonne, there are several other educational institutions in the quarter. Over time, the area has developed into a tourist attraction. It's always noisy and fun here. The numerous bars offer a relaxed, party atmosphere.

The real pride of France, one of the best and oldest European universities. The educational institution was founded at the beginning of the 13th century and since then has religiously observed old traditions and maintained the highest quality of education. From the beginning of the 17th century, the Sorbonne became the center of European philosophy and theology. Today, the Sorbonne brand unites 13 independent universities.

A popular museum of modern art, built in 1977 by French President J. Pompidou. It is a symbol of modernization and renewal of France. The original design of the building was proposed by the authors R. Rogers and R. Piano. The structure is unusual in that all engineering communications are moved outside, and inside, maximum space is used for various exhibitions.

A museum where collections of impressionists and post-impressionists are exhibited. The building was built for the opening of the Paris World Exhibition in 1900 and was used as a railway station until 1939. The architecture of the museum is a combination of elements of industrial style with classicism of the 19th century. After the station closed, it was planned to demolish the house and build a hotel in its place, but then it was decided to organize a museum.

Another name for the theater stage is Grand Opera. Its construction began under Emperor Napoleon III in the mid-19th century according to the design of the architect Charles Garnier. Several dozen sculptors worked on decorating the facade, so there is no single style in the design. The interiors of the opera are designed without bulky columns and supports (as in other theaters), so there is a lot of space and light inside.

The famous French variety show, art cafe and the hallmark of Parisian nightlife. Cabaret has existed since the end of the 19th century and has been very popular for more than 100 years. At first, this place was considered a “dirty establishment” with frivolous morals. The cabaret hall is always full, tickets for performances are sold out in advance. The show features dozens of performers and hundreds of costumes made by famous designers.

Architectural complex near the Eiffel Tower. The house was built under Louis XIV and was used as a shelter for veterans who were wounded and maimed during the wars. There were no similar establishments in Europe, so the monarch showed his best side, showing concern for his subjects. The Invalides received its first guests in 1674. The ensemble consists of the Church of St. Louis, orderly rows of barracks, a park and a hospital.

Former royal castle on the Ile de la Cité, one of the oldest in Paris. It was built on the site of a 6th-century fortress where the Frankish king Clovis lived. Until the end of the 14th century, French monarchs lived in the castle, but after the court moved to the Louvre, the Conciergerie was turned into a prison, which over the centuries was overgrown with dark stories. From here, thousands of prisoners (including Queen Marie Antoinette) went to the guillotine.

A building in the style of French classicism in the Latin Quarter. Initially it served as a church, but later became a burial place for famous and important personalities in French history. Construction of the Pantheon began in 1764, the first stone was laid by King Louis XV. Under the arches of the building lie the ashes of the great thinkers Rousseau and Voltaire, writers Emile Zola and Victor Hugo, and physicist Marie Sklodowska-Curie.

The only skyscraper in the city over 200 meters in height. The tower houses company offices, shops, banks and restaurants. More than 5,000 employees are in the building every day. You can get to the observation decks by using high-speed elevators, which take passengers to the 56th floor in a few tens of seconds. The tower was erected in the period 1969-1972.

A world-famous necropolis where many famous personalities are buried. The attraction attracts more than 2 million tourists a year. The cemetery has been operating since 1804, over two centuries its territory has grown to several tens of hectares, today it is a whole city with alleys, chapels and monumental crypts. Many actors, statesmen, writers, artists and poets found their final refuge here.

A network of artificial caves and tunnels laid at a depth of 15-20 meters. Their total length is several hundred kilometers. Dungeons have existed since the 13th century. Previously, there were limestone mines, then wine cellars, and since the 18th century - underground cemeteries. Tourists can follow a 2.5-kilometer excursion route in the catacombs; the rest of the underground complex is closed.

An elegant bridge decorated with figures of angels, nymphs and openwork lanterns in the Beaux Arts architectural style. Throws across the Seine River. By crossing the bridge, you can get from the Champs Elysees to the territory of the Invalides. The structure was named after the Russian Emperor Alexander III to highlight the closeness of France and Russia during a certain period of time. The bridge was declared a valuable architectural monument in 1975.

Paris street, which became famous during the development of cinema. It was here in 1985 that the Lumiere brothers showed their first film. Afterwards, small cinemas began to open on the boulevard one by one, as the new art quickly gained popularity among the public. The Olympia and Paramount Opera, opened at the beginning of the 20th century, are still operating. The composer Jacques Offenbach lived on the Boulevard des Capucines.

The large green area of ​​Paris, a park area that is called the “western lungs of Europe”. In past centuries, royal hunting grounds were located here. Luxurious holidays, receptions, and picnics of the French court were held on the territory of the forest. Under Louis XVI, the Bois de Boulogne was opened to the public. Now this area has become a popular city park.

A public park extending from the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde. Sculptures are installed in the garden - copies of exhibits from the royal Versailles, chestnut alleys are planted, and flower beds are laid out. The park was started by Catherine de Medici. On her orders, the tiled workshops were demolished (they were called “Tuileries”, hence the name of the garden) and the place was cleared for the future park.

The river, which is considered the soul and center of life in Paris. It is one of the largest in France. The Seine originates in Burgundy and flows into the English Channel. On the territory of Paris, the river artery bends many times, dividing the French capital into a historical, cultural and business part. Numerous pleasure boats ply along the Seine, carrying tourists from area to area.

A shopping center, a temple of the fashion industry and a place of pilgrimage for fashionistas from all over the world. The collections of all the famous French designers are presented here. Initially, at the end of the 19th century, it was a small shop selling ribbons and lace, but after a few years it grew into a large shopping center. Galeries Lafayette was one of the first to use modern marketing: bright signs, discounts and large windows.

An amusement park in the Parisian suburb of Marne-la-Vallée, operating since 1992. The park is owned by the American company Walt Disney. This is a magical world for children, where all the famous characters from Disney cartoons live, the scenery from their favorite fairy tales is recreated, and there are countless attractions that delight adults too. The park contains residential and business areas, hotels and golf courses.

The most romantic capital of the world invites you to plunge into the world of beauty and bliss. We invite you to learn better about the main attractions of Paris; photos with names and descriptions will help you with this.

The Paris Grand Opera is an opera house known throughout France and far beyond its borders. Critics, not without reason, call it the center of the country's theatrical culture.

The Grand Opera is one of the most famous theaters not only in France, but also in the world. The building was built for the Royal Academy of Music and Dance in the second half of the 17th century. Two centuries later in the 1870s, the theater was reconstructed.

It was thanks to ten years of restructuring that the national opera acquired the appearance familiar to tourists. Since then, the theater has been called the Grand Opera. However, local residents call the attraction “Opera Garnier”, in honor of the architect.

Such masters as Fyodor Chaliapin, Vaslav Nijinsky and Sergei Lifar performed on stage at different times. The red and gold semicircular hall, topped with a crystal chandelier, seats almost 2,000 spectators. You can watch the performance in the best seats for about 250 euros. Excursions are cheaper. About 10 euros per person.

Les Invalides is a famous landmark occupying the center of Paris. A boarding house for veterans of numerous wars fought by France appeared in the 70s of the 17th century.

The initiator of its creation was King Louis XIV himself. Almost immediately, the barracks were filled with about 4,000 retirees. Several hundred World War II participants still live here today.

In addition to the shelter, on the territory of the historical heritage site there is the Cathedral of the Invalides, as well as museums of modernity, the armed forces and others. The greatest commanders of France are buried here. Among them is Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte.

Champs Elysees is the main street of the French capital. The two-kilometer city artery connects the Place de la Concorde with the Arc de Triomphe. During public holidays, the Foreign Legion and other units march along the street.

Exactly 4 centuries ago, the territory of the Fields was a real wasteland. Then Queen Maria de' Medici ordered the area to be improved. And after about 150 years, residential buildings and guards appeared in a disadvantaged area.

Nowadays, the Champs Elysees is considered more prestigious and expensive than in the classical era.

A place that does not require a detailed description, the very center of Paris. The Latin Quarter is a college town in the modern sense. It is in this area of ​​Paris that the legendary Sorbonne University is located. 8 centuries ago, students diligently practiced the Latin language in these places. Hence the name of the quarter.

The Latin Quarter has long been transformed from a college town into a popular tourist route in Paris. This is evidenced by the fairly high prices for rental housing near the alma mater. Neighboring the Sorbonne are the Curie University, the Paris High School of Mines, as well as the Museum of the Middle Ages and the Luxembourg Gardens.

This is one of the most famous museums in the world. Almost 10 million people line up every year to view its unique exhibits. About the same number live in London or New York.

The area of ​​the exhibition halls can be compared to the area of ​​20 sports arenas, where you can look at tens of thousands of paintings, sculptures, jewelry and historical artifacts. Everything that man has created over thousands of years of evolution.

The museum is divided into sections where the achievements of world civilizations are presented, from ancient times to the recent past. Scientists have calculated that if a visitor spends at least one second viewing each exhibit, his stay in the museum will take about 10 hours, so experienced tourists are advised to highlight the most interesting exhibitions in advance.

It is located in the Latin Quarter. In this cozy part of Paris, near the university buildings, on an area of ​​almost 30 hectares, there is a huge park in the English style. In the middle of the garden there is a cultural and historical monument - the Luxembourg Palace.

To complete the architectural ensemble, a fountain was erected in front of the building, where tourists traditionally launch toy boats. Today it is not just a popular leisure spot for tourists and Parisians. The palace houses the Senate meeting room.

This is probably the most striking symbol of Russian-French friendship, of which Paris is proud. In 1896, the laying of the first stone of the building was made by Russian autocrat Nicholas II, the son of the late Alexander. This was the culmination of the visit of the royal delegation to Paris, as a result of which the powers concluded a military alliance.

After 4 years, the 160-meter bridge was completed. It connected the banks of the Seine, on one side of which is the Les Invalides, on the other - the Champs Elysees. The object is decorated with mythical and religious creatures - nymphs, angels and pegasi, as well as state regalia of France and Russia. More than half a century later, the bridge was recognized as a cultural heritage of the nation and has been protected by the authorities ever since.

The Musée d'Orsay is most attractive to connoisseurs of impressionism. However, this does not prevent it from being one of the most popular cultural sites in Paris.

The museum is named d'Orsay due to the name of the station, the premises of which were then turned into exhibition halls. The building was erected in 1900 to relieve other stations in the French capital.

Paris was preparing to host participants of the International Exhibition. After World War II, rail traffic declined and the station became unprofitable to maintain.

For about 30 years, the terminal remained in disrepair until its reconstruction began as a museum. Within its walls is one of the richest collections of impressionism. Monet, Gauguin, Renoir, Lautrec... Their heritage can be seen at the exhibition. In total there are more than 4,000 masterpieces.

Notre-Dame de Paris gained worldwide fame thanks to the writer Victor Hugo. The author wrote his immortal work “The Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris” - this is how the French title is translated into Russian.

The construction of the cathedral took almost two hundred years. If the first stone was laid to build a building in the Romanesque style in the 12th century, then the first services took place in the Gothic cathedral in the 14th century. The fashion for architecture has changed during this time.

The scale of the Parisian Notre Dame Cathedral impressed not only medieval inhabitants, but also subsequent generations. The cathedral can accommodate about ten thousand people, and the height allows a 12-story building to be built inside it. Moreover, the internal space is a single room. There are no walls. There are only columns supporting the arches.

Legend has it that Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris still contains one of the nails that once held together the cross of Jesus Christ.

The place to start exploring Paris is the Ile de la Cité, located in the middle of the Seine River and being the oldest part of the French capital. This is where the history of Paris began more than two thousand years ago.

Now there are very few residential buildings on the island; practically no one lives there. However, the Cité is home to many attractions, including the famous Parisian Notre Dame Cathedral and the Conciergerie prison, which now houses a museum. These architectural monuments attract tourists to the island all year round. Getting there is not at all difficult, because nine bridges lead from the city to the island.

Opposite the northern wall of the Louvre in the very center of the French capital is the Palais Royal, a magnificent royal residence that includes the palace and the adjacent square and park.

Initially, the name of the palace was Palais Cardinal, as it was built for Cardinal Richelieu. The luxury of the cardinal's possessions and his priceless collections of works of art aroused discontent and envy of the royal family. To avoid conflict with the monarch, Richelieu bequeathed his palace to him and after the death of the cardinal, the Palais Cardinal became a royal palace, receiving its current name.

Now the Palais Royal is a favorite place for tourists. The library and art gallery attract art and history buffs, while the picturesque park behind the palace provides a haven of peace and serenity in the busy city.

Place de la Concorde, designed in the 18th century by the architect Jacques-Anet Gabriel, is the main square of Paris. It has 8 corners, each of which contains statues representing the main cities of France.

Nowadays, the center of the square is decorated with an ancient Egyptian obelisk more than 20 m high. Initially, the square bore the name of its customer Louis XV and in the center there was an equestrian statue of the monarch.

In 1789, in honor of the French Revolution, the square received a new name, and as a sign of the overthrow of the monarchy, a huge guillotine was installed on the site of the king’s sculpture, on which many famous personalities were executed, including Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette.

After the revolutionary events, the guillotine was demolished, and the square became known as Place de la Concorde. This name became a symbol of peace and revival of France.

The geometrically correct Tuileries Garden is located in the center of Paris. And this is not just for words, the garden was really built according to all the strictness of architectural canons - the trees are in order and all living things are subordinated to human order.

An ancient French university, which is also an architectural and historical monument that appeared in Paris back in the 13th century. This was the first Parisian university.

Paris can be recognized by the Arc de Triomphe, which is located on Place Charles de Gaulle. Incredibly beautiful at night, in the light of the lights.

Surely you know that this metal structure was once considered ugly and unsuitable for such an elegant city. Now no one can imagine Paris without the Eiffel Tower.

Under the square of the already mentioned Notre Dame Cathedral there is an underground city. It has been here since the days of Ancient Rome. The Crypt Museum or archaeological crypt is an ancient city, the same Paris that no longer exists.

Versailles in the past was a suburb of Paris. The magnificent and majestic residence of Louis XIV. The funds allocated for its construction were incommensurable, which is why Versailles is often associated with unaffordable luxury and unsurpassed chic.

A little-known landmark of Paris, but quite tempting for those who would like a thrill. Back in the 11th century, the Cemetery of the Innocents was built here, where victims of the bubonic plague were buried. Today the catacombs are a haven for 2 million dead.

Pantheon in Paris

Initially, the building of the Pantheon was the church of Saint Genevieve and it was built by order of Louis XV, who, during a period of serious illness, in prayers to the saint, vowed to build a temple in her honor in the event of his recovery.

The king recovered and after a while he still fulfilled his promise. But with the arrival of the revolutionaries and the overthrow of the monarchy, the church changed its purpose and became a mausoleum for the great minds of France.

At the moment there are tombs of about 50 prominent Frenchmen. An interesting feature of the building is a copy of Foucault's pendulum, located directly under the dome of the Pantheon.

Montmartre Hill

This is the Parisian Everest, that is, the highest point of the metropolis. Scientists continue to debate about the origin of the name of the area. During the Roman Empire, two sanctuaries stood on this site. Some believe that the 130-meter hill was originally named in honor of the god of trade Mercury “mons Mercuri”, others associate the name of the mountain with the Roman celestial Mars “mons Martirium”.

In the 20th century, Montmartre became the center of Parisian painting and scandals. For example, “Sunset over the Adriatic Sea” written on a hill caused a great stir in the creative community. The success of the painting by the artist Dorzhele was until everyone found out that it was not he who painted, but his donkey. The animal was waving its tail next to a container filled with paint. The painting, which was a slap in the face to abstractionists, can be viewed in the Montmartre Museum.

Of course, these are not all the interesting places in the French capital, but now you know what attractions there are in Paris. In addition to them, there are also several dozen good museums and theaters, churches and cabarets, but it is unlikely that you will be able to visit them all in a short vacation period.

This concludes our review of “The Main Attractions of Paris: Photos with Names and Descriptions.” Now you know what there is in Paris, what attractions you can see first. Have you been here before? Then write a review in the comments.

1. Eiffel Tower

It may be the most famous structure in the world, and certainly the most famous landmark in Paris. The Eiffel Tower is a symbol not only of Paris, but of the whole of France. For many years it has been attracting tourists from all over the world who admire its beauty and delicacy, but few people know that at the beginning of the 20th century they wanted to demolish it, as it caused a lot of negative reviews and, as contemporaries believed, spoiled the landscape of Paris with its appearance .

The Eiffel Tower was designed by Gustave Eiffel and built in 1889 as a temporary structure for the World's Fair in Paris. The tower has earned the nickname “Iron Lady” for its grace and uniqueness.

2. Louvre Museum

The Louvre is one of the largest and most important museums in the world, it houses one of the finest collections of fine art, the collection includes such world masterpieces as Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, Michelagelo's Dying Slave and many other works by great masters. The museum has a collection of more than one million works of art, of which approximately 35,000 are on permanent display.

The museum is located in the vast Louvre palace, which is located in the 1st arrondissement, in the center of Paris. The museum is located in the former royal palace of the French kings. In 1793, during the French Revolution, the Louvre became the National Museum of Art and the royal collection was opened to the public.

Official website: www.louvre.fr/en

3. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

A triumph of Gothic architecture, Notre Dame is located in the heart of Paris on the Ile de la Cité on the Seine River near the Latin Quarter. Seine Island is the historical and geographical center of Paris. On this small piece of land, the Romans built the Gallo-Roman city of Lutetia and from the 6th century until the 14th century the kings of France lived on this island. Notre-Dame Cathedral was founded in 1163 by King Louis IX (Saint Louis) and Bishop Maurice de Sully and construction took over 150 years. The cathedral was built in the Gothic style.

The cathedral's massive interior can seat 6,000 people, and is dominated by three spectacular and enormous pink stained glass windows and a huge pipe organ with 7,800 pipes. If you climb the stairs to the cathedral tower, you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Paris. The tower also has a large bell that was rung by Quasimodo, the fictional hunchback in Victor Hugo's novel.

Opposite the north door is a museum that displays the history of the cathedral, while below the square in front of the cathedral is the crypt, which houses the Archaeological Museum of Notre Dame.

Official site: www.cathedraledeparis.com

4. Champs Elysees (Avenue Des Champs-Elysees)

The most famous boulevard in Paris and the most famous in the world, another iconic landmark of Paris. In the sixteenth century, on the site of the Champs Elysees there were ordinary rural fields. In 1616, Marie de' Medici decided to build a road east of the Tuileries, lined with trees. The route was redesigned in 1667 by the famous landscape designer Andre Le Notre, as a result of which the road was widened and eventually became a boulevard.

The Champs Elysees is an attractive force for any tourist, especially a shopaholic. Almost all famous brands are represented on the Champs Elysees, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany, Cortier and many other famous names, you need to have strong restraint not to enter these palaces of consumption. The Champs Elysees are also the most famous and famous cafes and restaurants in France, such as the Le Fouces restaurant and the chic gastronomic restaurant L "Atelier, which boasts two Michelin stars, but in addition to pretentious places, there are democratic McDonald's and Starbucks.

The Champs Elysees is used for all major celebrations in France. HereParisians celebrate the New Year and hold military parades.Historical national events, such as liberation during World War II or the victory in the World Cup, are also celebrated on the Champs-Élysées.

For centuries, this place was an ordinary village, bristling with a forest of windmills that provided the capital with flour. In the 19th century its picturesque charm and low rents have attracted artists, writers and musicians. Their migration was marked by the opening of lively bars, lively cabarets and unkempt
brothels, necessary conditions for the existence of “bohemian life” (la vie de bohème).

The heyday of Montmartre came at the end of the 19th - beginning of the 20th centuries, when Picasso lived in Le Bateau Lavoir, and Utrillo went to drink absinthe at the Nimble Rabbit's (Au Lapin Agile - "Au Lapin Agile" "), both points are included in the walk. Tourists appeared here during the First World War, and today they climb the Butte in droves, gathering in what was once the central square of the village - Place du Tertre, as well as around the Sacré-Coeur church, despite many years of operation, which remains a powerful symbol of the city . This is where Montmartre once began, notorious for the Pigalle district, but also full of other small squares, winding streets, old cemeteries, and all this gave the former village a special charm and unique atmosphere.

6. Orsay Museum (Musee d'Orsay)

The Orsay Museum is famous for its stunning collection of Impressionist paintings and is one of the main attractions in Paris. The Orsay Museum presents the works of all the famous masters of impressionism. Artists range from classical impressionist masters such as Degas, Edouard Manet, Claude Monet, Renoir and post-impressionists such as Bonnard, Cezanne and Van Gogh. Some of the museum's most memorable paintings include Claude Monet and His Magpie, Luncheon on the Grass by Renoir, and many other beautiful paintings by famous masters. In addition to Impressionist paintings, the Orsay Museum features rich exhibitions of sculpture, architecture, film history, furniture and photography.

The Orsay Museum is located right in the center of Paris and is located in the former train station of the same name.

Official website: www.musee-orsay.fr/en

7. Grand Opera (Palais Garnier Opera)

Another landmark of Paris, the Grand Opera or Paris Opera, now known as the Opéra Garnier, is one of the most famous opera and ballet theaters in the world. The building was designed by Charles Garnier in the Napoleon III style and was completed in 1875. The facade of the Grand Opera consists of classical columns and eight sculptures representing allegorical figures: poetry, music, idyll, recitation, song, drama and dance, at the very top of the building there are four exquisite gilded groups glorifying poetry. The red and golden hall of the Grand Opera seats 1,900 people; the ceiling of the hall was painted by the great Chagall in 1964.

Official website: www.operadeparis.fr/en

8. Place de la Concorde

Created between 1755 and 1775 by the court architect of King Louis XV, this impressive octagonal square is located in the center of Paris. Place de la Concorde is one of the most beautiful squares in Paris. It was on this square that most of the historical events in France took place, such as: the execution of King Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette, Danton and Robespierre, more than 1,300 people were executed by guillotine at the Place de la Concorde.

In the nineteenth century, an obelisk from the Temple of Ramses II (Egypt) was installed in the center of the Place de la Concorde. This is a 23-meter monolith of pink granite that weighs about 230 tons. At each corner of the octagonal square are statues representing a French city: Bordeaux, Brest, Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, Rouen and Strasbourg.

9. Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is dedicated to the victories of the French army. Construction of the Arc de Triomphe began on Napoleon's orders in 1806 and was completed in 1836. The arch is carved with life-size bas-reliefs that depict the French army's departure to war, its victories, and its glorious return home to France. On the inner surface of the arch are the names of more than 660 generals and over a hundred battles in which the French army took part. The Arc de Triomphe in Paris is the largest arch in the world, its height is 51 meters.

The observation deck of the Arc de Triomphe offers a panoramic view of the 12th Avenue, which starts from the Place de l'Etoile, from the Champs Elysees to the Place de la Concorde and the Louvre. At the foot of the Arc de Triomphe is Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, dedicated to the memory of those killed in the First World War.

10. Sainte Chapelle

Sainte-Chapelle is considered a rare gem of the Middle Ages. Sainte Chapelle is one of the highest achievementsperiodgothic architecture. Her the construction was ordered by the king Louis IX 1242-1248 and was intended to store sacred relics that the monarch acquired from the bankrupt Emperor of Constantinople. The altar displays the Crown of Thorns relic. The chapel is famous for its exquisite stained glass windows, which give the sanctuary an iridescent sheen and a serene aura. The colors and light symbolize divinity and the Heavenly Jerusalem. The Sainte-Chapelle is now rarely used for mass, but often serves as a venue for concerts.

Jardin de Luxembourg)

In 1611, Marie de' Medici, widow of Henry IV and regent for King Louis XIII decided to build a palace in imitation Pitti Palace in his native Florence . She purchased the Luxembourg Hoteland began construction of a new palace.In 1612, gardeners planted 2,000 elms, and Tommaso Franchini the great engineer of those times began to create the park.

The main feature of the park is a large octagonal pond with a fountain, surrounded by two elegant terraces. The park is very popular among Parisians for relaxation and picnics, especially among students in the Latin Quarter.

The inscription at the entrance to the Pantheon reads: “Grateful Fatherland to Great Men”

14. Place des Abbesses

As you exit the metro into the picturesque Place des Abbesses, take in the seductive curves of pale green metal and the glazed roofs of the beautifully preserved Belle Époque metro entrance. This is one of two surviving originals of Hector Guimard's early design.

The square was named after the nuns, for whom Adelaide of Savoy, wife of Louis VI (nicknamed Tolstoy), founded a women's abbey on the top of Butte in 1133. Tired of climbing to the monastery, in the 17th century. the nuns moved the abbey down here. On the south side is the Church of Saint-Jean-Evangelist (1904), built by Anatole de Baudot in the Moorish style, it was the first building in the city reinforced with concrete structures. The tiled decoration and red brick façade gave the church the popular name Saint-Jean-de-Brique (St. John of Brick).

15. Pompidou Center

Built in the 1970s and named after former French President Georges Pompidou, the futuristic Pompidou Center is now considered part of the Parisian landscape. The outrageous design, complete with its glass elevators, was the inspiration for London-based architecture firm Lloyds Building, but despite its controversial design, the Pompidou Center attracts millions of visitors and is Paris's most popular attraction today. In the center of the Pampidou, a must-see is the National Museum of Modern Art, which displays an extensive collection of 20th-century art, from Fauvism and Cubism to the Abstract and Absurd.

If you want to see all the main attractions of Paris, be sure to book a guided tour.

Official website: www.centrepompidou.fr