What Is the Original Name of Paris?

By Robert Palmer

Paris is one of the world’s most famous cities, known for its stunning architecture, charming streets, and romantic ambiance. However, not many people know that this city was not always called Paris. In fact, the original name of Paris was quite different from what we know today.

The original name of Paris was “Lutetia Parisiorum,” which translates to “Lutetia of the Parisii.” The Parisii were a Celtic tribe that lived in the area before the Romans conquered it.

Lutetia was a small settlement located on an island in the Seine River. It was a vital trading center and played a significant role in the development of the region.

Over time, Lutetia grew into a prosperous city with impressive buildings and monuments such as temples, theaters, and public baths. However, it wasn’t until Julius Caesar’s conquest of Gaul in 52 BC that Lutetia became officially recognized as part of the Roman Empire.

Under Roman rule, Lutetia continued to flourish and expand. The Romans built roads, bridges, and aqueducts that connected Lutetia to other parts of Gaul and beyond. They also built walls around the city for protection against invasions.

In 508 AD, after being ruled by various Germanic tribes for over two centuries following Rome’s collapse, Clovis I made Paris his capital. The name “Paris” is derived from “Parisii,” which was the name of the Celtic tribe that originally inhabited the area.

Today, Paris remains one of Europe’s most important cities and continues to draw millions of visitors every year with its rich history, culture, art scene, fashion industry and culinary delights.

In conclusion, while many people refer to it as “The City Of Love” or “The City Of Light,” few know that Paris’ original name was Lutetia Parisiorum. Its rich history has made it a cultural hub, and its name has become synonymous with beauty and romance. So next time you visit Paris, remember its original name and the ancient roots that helped shape this magnificent city.