Travel

For centuries, Paris has been an international mecca of arts and culture. (Photo: paris image by hugy from Fotolia )

Paris, the ultra-cosmopolitan French capital city, has a longstanding global reputation as a mecca of art, culture, fashion, gastronomy, history and architecture. Called the City of Light, City of Love and Capital of Fashion, Paris is not only brimming with internationally famous attractions but is an energetic city where beauty and vivacity ever-weave its curvy streets. Paris starring role on the global stage makes it a prime destination for travelers, who have many reasons to visit beyond the emblematic Eiffel Tower and the world-renowned wines.

Paris has been an international artists hub for centuries. The world s most visited museum, Musee de Louvre, attracts millions of visitors each year. It offers thousands of collections and some of the world s most famous original works from prominent artistic eras, such as Da Vinci s Mona Lisa from the Italian Renaissance. After an art history tour, visitors can indulge in world-famous modern and contemporary art collections in the Pompidou Centre, an architecturally anomalous structure in the heart of Paris, dedicated to European art collections. The Musee d Orsay is also a popular destination for art-loving tourists. This famous museum offers all things French, including famous Impressionist collections of works by Auguste Renoir and Claude Monet.

Parisian landmarks are recognized as much for their architectural grandeur as for their historical significance. One of the most popular landmarks is the Arc de Triomphe, which overlooks the world-famous Champs-Elysees avenue. Commissioned in 1806 in honor of the French military and completed 30 years later, this aesthetically impressive structure houses military-related historical art and artifact collections, and offers a panoramic view of Paris from its high terrace. Notre Dame is another historic landmark, and one of the world s most famous cathedrals. With its breathtaking Gothic and Renaissance design, and an equally overwhelming interior of artistic detail, Notre Dame has a colorful history that lends insight into French culture. Also, the Chateau de Versailles, located in the Parisian suburbs, offers tourists a visually stimulating and educational experience. Once Louis XIII s hunting lodge, the Chateau de Versailles has been named a world-heritage site by UNESCO.