| The Wonders of Paris, France |
Paris, the city of romance and fashion also has some of the most beautiful and ancient architectural sites and art museums in the world. This list contains just some of Paris’ many wonders:
The Eiffel Tower
La Tour Eiffel was designed by Gustav Eiffel for the 1889 World Fair and built on the Champ de Mars beside the Seine River in Paris. This 300 metres tall building is one of the most recognizable structures in the world. A ride up to the top guarantees some spectacular views of the City of Lights.
Arc de Triomphe
Located on the Rive Droite, the Arc de Triomphe is directly north from the Eiffel Tower. This has been at the centre of Paris's history with both the German occupying army and the liberating Allied forces marching through it during World War Two. In fact, this iconic Triumphal arch was being commissioned by the Little Corporal in 1806 as a monument to Napoleon's military prowess.
The Panthéon
Located in the 5th arrondissement on the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève, the Panthéon was originally built as a church dedicated to St. Genevieve but after many changes now combines liturgical functions with its role as a famous burial place. It is one of the most important architectural achievements of its time and the first great neoclassical monument
Musée d'Orsay
The Musée d'Orsay lies on the Rive Gauche of the Seine, opposite the royal palace. It was designed by Victor Laloux as a railway station for the 1900 Paris World Fair. Today, this museum is consider to be among the best in the world with a stunning Impressionist collection containing wonderful works of Monet, Renoir, Degas, Van Gogh, Cézanne and Pissarro.
The Louvre
The Louvre Museum, said to be the world's most famous art museum was established in 1793. It is a historic monument and a national symbol is one of the world's most visited art museums. Its collection spans from the birth of great civilizations up to the 19th century with nearly 35,000 pieces displayed over 60,000 square metres. The piece de resistance at the Louvre's is Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa."
Picasso Museum
The fabulous Picasso Museum is filled with works of art by the very famous artist Picasso, who spent many years in France, including the war years. The amazingly diverse works demonstrate how the genius developed his unique style through different periods. |
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