PARIS !!!!

Paris is a city of romance and culture, known for its iconic landmarks and its art history. The city of lights is an ideal destination for tourists wanting to take in the sights and sounds of a truly unique city. Those looking to explore the iconic monuments of Paris can do so through guided tours, or can explore on their own. There is the iconic Eiffel Tower, the iconic Archee de Triomphe, and the Notre Dame to see, or take a tour of the Latin Quarter or the Louvre museum. The romantic streets of Paris are home to hidden small shops and cafes, all perfect for tourists to explore. From the antique markets on the Isle de la Cité to the bustling cafes around Place de la Concorde, every corner of the city has something to offer. There are many activities which tourists can partake in, from visiting the iconic Opera Garnier to having dinner in a romantic restaurant. There is also a vibrant nightlife to explore, with bars and clubs to dance the night away. For those looking for something a bit more unique, there is the world-class fashion district in the city. A trip to Avenue des Champs-Élysées is an ideal way to experience the height of Paris fashion and chic. No matter what type of visitor you are, Paris has something special to offer. The city of lights and romance has attracted visitors from all around the world, and is ready to welcome them in to its storied history and culture. The Louvre’s Masterpieces

The Louvre Museum is a must-see when in Paris, and it's the world's largest and most visited art museum. It houses over 35,000 artworks, including the world-famous Mona Lisa. Visitors can explore the artwork and sculptures that span the last 8,000 years of human history!

1. The Mona Lisa (1503-1517) by Leonardo da Vinci – This iconic painting has been lauded for centuries for its graceful composition, mysterious expression, and skillful painting. Considered the world’s most recognizable artwork, it draws crowds of admirers each year to its home in the Louvre.

2. Venus de Milo (c. 100 BC) by Alexandros of Antioch – This famed ancient sculpture stands in the Louvre’s collection as an iconic representation of the canon of beauty. Possessing a harmonious balance of form and grace, it continues to fascinate and attract viewers through its enigmatic expression.

3. Liberty Leading the People (1830) by Eugène Delacroix – This monumental painting captures the essence of the French Revolution with its iconic woman standing at the forefront of the group. Vivid and dynamic, it is a shining example of Romanticism and a timeless piece of artwork.

4. The Coronation of Napoleon (1805-1807) by Jacques-Louis David – This piece of artwork depicting the coronation of Napoleon I is a grandiose reimagining of real-life events. Its sweeping brushstrokes, vivid colors, and majestic figures capture the grandeur of a beloved emperor’s ascension to power.

5. Winged Victory of Samothrace (c. 190 BC) by Unknown – This Hellenistic sculpture of the Greek goddess Nike is a beloved example of ancient Greek art. It is a dynamic symbol of victory which continues to entice its viewers with its masterful contours and lifelike expressions.

6. The Raft of the Medusa (1819) by Théodore Géricault – This highly detailed painting tells the tragic story of a shipwreck and the survivors’ desperate struggle for survival. His intense use of colors, light, and shadows has made this artwork famous even to this day.

7. The Lacemaker (17th century) by Johannes Vermeer – This remarkable painting is a timeless representation of the everyday life in the Netherlands during the 17th century. Its expressive colors, lifelike textures, and grandiose composition make it one of the most beloved pieces in the Louvre.

8. The Winged Bull from Lamassu (8th century BC) by Unknown – This imposing and beauteous sculpture is a relic from the Assyrian culture. Its power and influence over viewers continues to be overwhelming, and its complicated history remains a source of fascination for many visitors.

9. The Code of Hammurabi (1792-1750 BC) by Unknown – This remarkable and ancient set of laws inscribed on a piece of diorite stele serves as a testimony to Babylonian culture and administrative achievements. As a testament to the development of early civilizations, it continues to bewitch its viewers.

10. The Raising of Lazarus (c. 1520-1525) by Sebastiano del Piombo – This iconic painting depicting the resurrection of Lazarus is a masterful example of Renaissance art. Its powerful rendering and majestic composition make it a timeless masterpiece and one of the most beloved pieces in the Louvre.

11. Relief de Séthi I et Hathor -1294 / -1279 (Séthi I)

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The Eiffel Tower

The best time of day to visit the Eiffel Tower is at sunset. The view from the top of the Eiffel Tower is especially beautiful when the sun is setting, and the Eiffel Tower is lit up. It’s a romantic and special experience to enjoy the sunset with the Eiffel Tower in the background. However, the Eiffel Tower can get very busy during the day and in the evenings, so if you don’t want crowds, try going first thing in the morning.

Interesting facts about the Eiffel Tower

The iconic Eiffel is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, and for good reason – it is an incredible structure to behold! The tower stands tall over Paris, towering at 324 meters tall. The tower was built in 1889, and it is a popular tourist attraction, which entices millions of visitors to its viewing platform every year. An interesting fact is that it can be seen from 95 km away!

1. It took over 2 years to build the Eiffel Tower - from 1887 to 1889. 2. The Eiffel Tower is the tallest structure in Paris, standing at a height of 1,063 feet (324 meters).

3. About 7 million people visit the Eiffel Tower every year. 4. The height of the Eiffel Tower varies by up to 6 inches (15 cm) due to the temperature as metal expands when heated. 5. The four legs of the tower are connected by metal arches, and they form a curved shape at the top. 6. The Eiffel Tower has appeared in over 50 films. 7. Gustave Eiffel, the architect of the tower, originally had the idea of painting the tower gold to make it look more attractive. 8. The paint used to paint the tower weighs 60 tons and must be reapplied every seven years.

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Notre Dame Cathedral: Notre Dame Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that adorns the banks of the Seine River. It is classified as an Historic Monument and is the symbol of Paris. The cathedral was built between 1163 and 1345, and its spire reaches a height of over 280 feet. Inside, visitors can take in the beauty of its breathtaking stained-glass windows and detailed sculptures.

Montmartre: A visit to Montmartre is a must when in Paris. This area is famous for its quaint streets, windy staircases, and art galleries. It also houses some of the city's oldest churches and is home to the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The area is also a great spot for visitors to enjoy a glass of red with a stunning view of Paris.

Arc de Triomphe: Last but not least, the grand Arc de Triomphe is located at the western end of the iconic Champs-Élysées. Built in 1806, the impressive monument stands proud at 50 meters high. An interesting fact is that the view from the top is the only place where all 12 avenues in Paris meet.

By Cristina Webb