Did You Know?

Did you know that Paris has an extensive underground tunnel network known as the Catacombs? These tunnels house the remains of approximately six million people. The Catacombs were created in the late 18th century to address the issue of overcrowded cemeteries in the city.

Did you know that Paris is known as the "City of Light"? This nickname doesn't refer to the city's abundance of streetlights but instead to its historical status as a center of enlightenment and education during the Age of Enlightenment in the 18th century.

Did you know that the Eiffel Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris, was initially built as a temporary structure for the 1889 World's Fair? It was intended to stand for just 20 years before being dismantled. However, it gained immense popularity and was saved from demolition, eventually becoming a beloved symbol of the city.

Did you know that Paris is home to the Louvre Museum, one of the largest and most visited art museums in the world? However, the Louvre wasn't always a museum. It was initially built as a fortress in the 12th century, then transformed into a royal palace before being opened to the public as a museum in 1793.

Did you know that Paris is known for its café culture? The city is famous for its numerous charming sidewalk cafes where people can relax, enjoy a cup of coffee, and soak in the atmosphere. The café culture in Paris has been an integral part of the city's social life and has inspired many famous writers, artists, and intellectuals throughout history.

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The Louvre: A Timeless Treasure

You don’t have to be an art aficionado to love The Louvre. The building itself, a former (centuries old, from Medieval times) palace, could stand alone as a place of majesty and awe. That it contains vast collections of art is a bonus. It is a landmark, not just as it relates to Paris, but for world culture.

The Louvre contains the world’s most eclectic and extensive works of art, sculpture and decorative objects from the pre-20th century period. This is where visitors can view the Mona Lisa (prepare for line-ups or go as soon as The Louvre opens on a weekday) and the Venus de Milo. It would take about two weeks of daily access to completely tour the entirety of the exhibits, three weeks to do it properly.

As such, most visitors to The Louvre pick a section and concentrate on one collection at a time. The choices are tricky: Rembrandt (and many other Old Masters); Vermeer; or perhaps Caravaggio. Security is tight here, so be ready for your belongings to be checked upon entry.