Paris, the city of love and lights, is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors every year. With its rich history, iconic landmarks, and beautiful architecture, it’s no wonder that Paris is on the bucket list of many travelers.
But what is the most visited place in Paris? Let’s find out.
The Eiffel Tower – A Symbol of Paris
Without a doubt, the Eiffel Tower is the most visited place in Paris. This iconic landmark was built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World’s Fair and has since become a symbol of Paris and France.
The tower stands at 324 meters tall and offers stunning views of the city from its observation decks. Visitors can take an elevator or climb stairs to reach the top.
Fun Facts About the Eiffel Tower
- The tower was originally intended to be a temporary structure
- It took two years to build and over 18,000 pieces of wrought iron were used in its construction
- The tower was almost torn down in 1909 but was saved because it had become useful for communication purposes
The Louvre Museum – Home to Famous Artworks
The Louvre Museum is one of the world’s largest museums and houses over 35,000 works of art spanning from ancient times to present day. Some of the most famous artworks housed in the museum include Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” and “Venus de Milo”. With its impressive collection, it’s no surprise that the Louvre Museum is one of the most visited places in Paris.
Fun Facts About The Louvre Museum
- The museum was originally built as a fortress in the late 12th century
- It became a museum in 1793 during the French Revolution
- The Louvre Museum is home to the largest collection of Egyptian antiquities outside of Egypt
Notre-Dame Cathedral – A Gothic Masterpiece
Notre-Dame Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and has been a Parisian landmark for over 800 years. The cathedral is famous for its intricate rose windows and flying buttresses. Visitors can explore the interior of the cathedral, which includes beautiful stained glass windows and an ornate altar.
Fun Facts About Notre-Dame Cathedral
- The cathedral was featured in Victor Hugo’s novel “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”
- It took over 200 years to complete the construction of the cathedral
- The cathedral was severely damaged by a fire in April 2019, but restoration efforts are underway.
Arc de Triomphe – A Monument to French History
The Arc de Triomphe is another iconic landmark in Paris that attracts many visitors. The monument was built between 1806 and 1836 to commemorate French soldiers who fought and died during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Visitors can climb to the top of the monument for panoramic views of Paris.
Fun Facts About Arc de Triomphe
- The monument stands at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, which is one of the busiest roundabouts in Paris.
- The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier lies beneath the arch and serves as a tribute to French soldiers who died in World War I.
In conclusion, while there are many beautiful places to visit in Paris, it’s clear that the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Arc de Triomphe are the most visited places in Paris. With their rich history, stunning architecture, and iconic status, these landmarks are a must-see for any traveler visiting the City of Love.