What Did the Romans Call Paris?

By Robert Palmer

If you have ever been to Paris, you might have wondered what the city was called during the Roman era. The name “Paris” is believed to have originated from the Celtic word “parisio,” which means “the working people.” However, the Romans had a different name for this beautiful city.

What did the Romans call Paris?

During their rule in France, the Romans named Paris as “Lutetia Parisiorum”. The Latin word “Lutetia” translates to “marshy land” or “swamp.” This name was given to Paris due to its location on the marshy banks of River Seine.

The Roman influence on Paris

The Roman Empire had a significant influence on Paris during their rule. They built several important structures that still exist today, such as arenas, temples, and public baths. One of the most notable Roman structures in Paris is the Arènes de Lutèce.

Fun Fact: The Arènes de Lutèce is one of the few remaining Roman amphitheaters in France and can still be visited by tourists.

The Romans also established a network of roads that connected various cities in France. One such road was known as Via Agrippa and connected Lyon to Boulogne-sur-Mer via Paris.

The fall of Roman rule in Paris

The Roman Empire’s rule over France came to an end in the 5th century AD when Germanic tribes invaded and conquered many regions. With the fall of Rome, Lutetia Parisiorum became known simply as “Paris.”

  • In 508 AD, Clovis I made Paris his capital city.
  • During medieval times, Paris grew into a major political and cultural center.
  • The French Revolution took place in Paris, which led to the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Paris has had a long and fascinating history. The Romans named it “Lutetia Parisiorum” due to its location on marshy land, and their influence can still be seen in some of the city’s structures. Despite the fall of Roman rule, Paris continued to thrive and become one of the most iconic cities in the world.