Did You Know?

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 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.

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 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.

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Notre Dame De Paris: A Timeless Icon Of Art, History, And Spirituality

When fire hit this venerable cathedral in April of 2019, thousands quickly donated to its restoration. Thousands more criticized people for sending money to a church and openly suggested the parishioners (and insurance companies) pay for the repairs. The latter group had not done their research. Notre Dame de Paris is not owned by any governing church body, but by the Republic of France, and it is not a religious shrine, but a marker of art, architecture, history and culture. It belongs to every human being on the planet.

Taking more than 100 years to build, this 12th century Gothic building speaks not just to the chosen worship of the day, but to the history of western culture itself. It was viewed then as the heartbeat of Paris, so more than just a place to listen to masses and pray, but a community setting, a peaceful and serene place of gathering and individual reflection. It is, in and of itself, a work of art, resplendent with towers, a soaring spire, staggeringly beautiful stained glass, statuary and art treasures that mark the evolution of mankind. Priceless.

It will take time to restore the parts of Notre Dame that were destroyed in the fire (so, before you plan to visit, check the website for the cathedral and see where things stand in terms of public access), but like we humans, Notre Dame de Paris will prevail.