France Vacation in Formal Paris
(Followed by 'informal' Paris.) Here are some of the grand Places du Paris to see on your France vacation. Each is unique, with an extensive history, perhaps a Paris neighborhood centering around them, and a special meaning in the minds of the French. You will want to see them all on your France vacation.Place Vendome in Paris is a courtyard with an incredible column in the center and high-rent mansions and jewelry stores on every side. Many noteworthy Parisians have lived in the apartments, including the infamous Collette. After the battle of Austerlitz, Napoleon had the column made with the 1200 cannons taken from the Austrians and the Russians. The cannons were not melted, but soldered end to end.
An amazing sight on an Autumn afternoon, with low clouds coming from the north.
The Louvre. When the glass Pyramid was constructed in the center of the courtyard, along with an underground facility and restaurants and concessions, and the exhibits were reformulated, the French did not like the changes. Now they say they do. You can see for yourself. But do not go without buying tickets first. Trust me.
Notre Dame, another Paris icon, has wavered between the secular and the religious for centuries. It is an architectural wonder and a political venue, but also it is the home church of some real Parisians. Currently, the pendulum has swung toward the parishioners, with a new altar and congregational area in an area that used to be set aside for viewing by visitors. It was where Napoleon took the crown from the Pope's hands and crowned himself Emperor of France.
Visiting can be a deeply moving experience, an unsettling experience, or a museum kind of experience. It depends on what you bring to it. But like very much of Paris, it must be experienced.
OH... yes, the gargoyles. They provide quite a contrast. This one seems to be looking toward the center of Paris. What could he be thinking. Or if you would like to look into making travel plans to go to Europe,
Whatever it is, let's take a break from monuments and stroll down some of those interesting Parisian streets. Could be fun.
Click Here to stroll the streets of Paris for a moment.
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