The Beauty of Paris, and its Country

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Paris, France is more than 2000 years old. Memories of the Parisii tribe settled there some time between 250 and 200 B.C. The members founded a fishing village on an island near the river that is the present day location of Ile de la Cite; the center point of which Paris is built around. In ancient times, Paris was once known as Lutetia. Paris was conquered in 52 B.C. by Julius Caesar and was a center point under the Roman Empire through the early Middle Ages. Count of Paris, Hugh Capet, became king of France in 987 and helped Paris position its name as the nation’s capital. Paris played major roles in the revolutions of 1830 and 1848, and during the Franco-Prussian war, the city was besieged for four months until France surrendered. Germany occupied the city during World War II from 1940 to 1944. Today, Paris maintains its importance and character through its appearance. Structures such as the Beaubourg and the Grands Projects add to this effect. Paris is a fantastic city. History aside, Paris’ culture and surrounding geography play a big role in the beauty of the area (Sommers 1)
Most people associate French culture with Paris, a center of fashion, cuisine, art and architecture. Life outside the vibrant city is very different and often varies based on region. The country has approximately 65.4 million residents who dominantly speak French. Around 3 percent of the population speaks German, predominantly in the eastern provinces. Those living near the border of Italy often speak Italian as a second language. The predominant religion of France is Roman Catholic. 80 percent of the population identifies themselves as such. The vast majority of those who claim the religion do not attend mass regularly. Other religions of France incl...

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...ill only grow. From old fisherman and settlers to Julius Caesar, from Vincent Van Gogh to romance, and from blood red merlots to crystal clear rivers; Paris and its country sure have a lot to offer. The history, scenery and people offer so much to the extravagance of it all. Paris and all that goes with it surely shows why it is such a popular destination for travelers everywhere.

Works Cited

“France's Geography.” ThinkQuest. Oracle Foundation, n.d. Web. 11 Jan. 2014. .
Summers, Lawrence M. "History of Paris, France." History of Paris, France. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 Jan. 2014. .
Zimmerman, Kim A. "French Culture: Customs & Traditions." LiveScience.com. N.p., 23 Aug. 2013. Web. 07 Jan. 2014. .

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