Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde

Place de la ConcordeThe Place de la Concorde is a the largest square in Paris, it is situated between the Champs-Élysées and the Tuileries Gardens. The square was designed by Jacques-Ange Gabriel, construction began in 1754 and was completed in 1763. On the square are two beautiful fountains, one is called 'Fontaine des Mers' and was added in 1836. The other one 'La fontaine des Fleuves' was added in 1839, both were made by Jacques-Ignace Hittorff.

In the centre of the Place de la Concorde is the 3300 year old Obelisk of Luxor. It is a 23 meters tall pink granite monolith and weighs 230 tons. The obelisk once marked the entrance to the Amon temple at Luxor. It was given to the French in 1829 by the viceroy of Egypt, Mehemet Ali.

The Place de la Concorde is a the largest square in Paris, it is situated between the Champs-Élysées and the Tuileries Gardens. The...

Les Invalides

Les Invalides, Paris

Les Invalides was founded in 1670 by Sun King Louis XIV to house disabled veterans. The architect of Les Invalides was Libéral Bruant, construction was finished in 1676. The Dome Church(photo) was built later, it was designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart and was completed in 1708.

Inside the Dome Church are the tombs of several military leaders, the most notable tomb is that of Napoleon Bonaparte. His remains were repatriated from St. Helena in 1840, where he was buried 19 years earlier. Other famous military leaders that are buried here are Turenne, Vauban and Marshall Foch.

Today Les Invalids houses various museums, the most important museum is the Army Museum with a main focus on Napoleon and Charles de Gaulle.

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Les Invalides was founded in 1670 by Sun King Louis XIV to house disabled veterans. The architect of Les Invalides was Libéral Bruant, const...

Jardin des Plantes

Jardin des Plantes, Paris

The Jardin des Plantes is the main botanical garden in France. It is divided into several sections: alpine garden, iris garden, perennials garden, greenhouses and the botanical school.

The National Museum of Natural History in Paris is situated within the Jardin des Plantes. This museum includes four galleries: Evolution, Mineralogy, Paleontology and Entomology.

In addition to the gardens there is also an aquarium and a small zoo. The Menagerie Zoo was founded after the French Revolution of 1789, it's one of the oldest zoos in the world.

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The Jardin des Plantes is the main botanical garden in France. It is divided into several sections: alpine garden, iris garden, perennials g...

The Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame

stained glass window

Notre-Dame

Notre-Dame

gargoyleThe Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. Construction started in 1163 by Bishop Maurice de Sully and was finished in 1345. The cathedral is a must-see for the beautiful Gothic architecture and the magnificent artworks. It stands on the Île de la Cité, one of the small islands in the centre. Easy to reach by metro, which stops very close to the cathedral.

The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. Construction started in 1163 by Bishop Maurice de Sully...

The Palace of Versailles: A Monument to Grandeur and Opulence

Nestled in the lush, picturesque landscape just outside of Paris, the Palace of Versailles, or Château de Versailles, is an iconic symbol of the extravagance and grandeur of the French monarchy. Often hailed as one of the most magnificent palaces in the world, Versailles is a dazzling showcase of artistic achievement, opulent architecture, and historical significance. 

Outside view of the Palace of Versailles

The story of Versailles began in the 17th century when King Louis XIV, also known as the "Sun King," chose this former hunting lodge as the location for his royal residence. Over the course of several decades, it was transformed into a palace of unparalleled splendor. The grandeur of Versailles was meant not only to reflect the king's personal power but also to centralize the French monarchy and symbolize France's dominance in Europe.

Beautiful room in the Palace of Versailles

One of the most famous features of the palace is the Hall of Mirrors, or Galerie des Glaces. This breathtaking gallery is lined with 357 mirrors, reflecting the shimmering light from 17 enormous windows. It served as the setting for important events in French history, including the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I. 

The famous Hall of Mirrors in the Palace of Versailles

The palace's opulent interiors include the King's State Apartments and the Queen's State Apartments, each adorned with ornate decorations, gilded paneling, and remarkable frescoes. The Royal Chapel, with its stunning architecture and religious significance, is another highlight.

The chapel in the Palace of Versailles

The extensive Gardens of Versailles, designed by André Le Nôtre, are a masterpiece of landscape architecture, featuring meticulously manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures. The Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon, located within the palace grounds, offer further insights into the royal lifestyle and are equally impressive in their own right. 

The garden at the Palace of Versailles

Visitors to the Palace of Versailles are transported back in time to the height of French monarchy, where the excesses of the aristocracy and the extravagance of royal life are on full display. The palace's historical significance extends to the French Revolution when it was turned into a museum to celebrate the nation's cultural heritage. 

A bedroom with beautiful decorations in Palace of Versailles

Today, the Palace of Versailles stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and continues to welcome millions of visitors annually. It offers a glimpse into the lavish world of France's royal history, an appreciation of unparalleled artistry, and an enduring symbol of European monarchy's splendor and excess. Versailles is a testament to the enduring allure of opulence and artistry that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Beautiful decorated ceiling in the Palace of Versailles

Location: Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France. 

Nestled in the lush, picturesque landscape just outside of Paris, the Palace of Versailles, or Château de Versailles, is an iconic symbol of...

The Sacré-Coeur

Sacre-Coeur, ParisThe Basilique du Sacré-Coeur is located on the highest point of Paris, the butte Montmartre. It was designed by Paul Abadie in Roman-Byzantine style and dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The interior is dominated by the beautiful painted dome from which you can have a great view of Paris.

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The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur is located on the highest point of Paris, the butte Montmartre. It was designed by Paul Abadie in Roman-Byzanti...

The Moulin Rouge

Moulin Rouge

Moulin Rouge in ParisFamous for the red windmill on its roof, the Moulin Rouge brings cabaret since 1889. The shows consists of more than 100 artists; 1000 costumes of feathers, rhinestones and sequins; sumptuous sets; international acts and original music.

Famous for the red windmill on its roof, the Moulin Rouge brings cabaret since 1889. The shows consists of more than 100 artists; 1000 costu...

The Louvre

The Louvre, Paris The Louvre, home of the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and many other masterpieces. It is one of the largest museums in the world and famous for its glass pyramid. The Louvre is divided into 3 parts with about 35.000 objects on display. To much for just one visit but you can't leave Paris without having a look in here.

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The Louvre, home of the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and many other masterpieces. It is one of the largest museums in the world and famous ...