Some consider that the name of the Parisii tribe comes from the Celtic Gallic word parisio meaning « the working people » or « the stone breakers”. The  King Saint Louis encouraged the legend of an ancestry of prince Pâris which kidnapped the beautiful Hélene and provoked the Trojan War.

Paris has many nicknames, but its most famous is « La Ville-Lumière » (« The City of Light ») a name it owes first to its fame as a centre of education and ideas during the Age of Enlightenment, and later to its early adoption of street lighting.

Paris’ inhabitants are known in English as « Parisians » and in French as Parisiens. Parisians are often pejoratively called Parigots, a term first used in 1900 by those living outside the Paris region, but now the term may be considered endearing by Parisians themselves.

HISTORY

The earliest archaeological signs of permanent habitation in the Paris area date from around 4200 BC. The Parisii, a sub-tribe of the Celtic Senones, inhabited the area near the river Seine from around 250 BC. The Romans conquered the Paris basin in 52 BC, with a permanent settlement by the end of the same century on the Left Bank Sainte Geneviève Hill and the Île de la Cité. The Gallo-Roman town was originally called Lutetia, but later Gallicised to Lutèce.

It expanded greatly over the following centuries, becoming a prosperous city with a forum, palaces, baths, temples, theatres, and an amphitheatre. The collapse of the Roman empire and the fifth-century Germanic invasions sent the city into a period of decline. By 400 AD, Lutèce, by then largely abandoned by its inhabitants, was little more than a garnison town entrenched into the hastily fortified central island. The city reclaimed its original appellation of « Paris » towards the end of the Roman occupation. The Frankish king Clovis I established Paris as his capital in 508.

Paris’s population was around 200,000 when the Black Death arrived in 1348, killing as many as 800 people a day, and 40,000 died from the plague in 1466. According to Biraben, plague was present in Paris for almost one year in three in the 16th and 17th centuries to 1670. Paris lost its position as seat of the French realm during occupation of the English-allied Burgundians during the Hundred Years’ War, but regained its title when Charles VII of France reclaimed the city from English rule in 1436. Paris from then became France’s capital once again in title, but France’s real centre of power would remain in the Loire Valley until King Francis I returned France’s crown residences to Paris in 1528.

During the French Wars of Religion, Paris was a stronghold of the Catholic party. In August 1572, under the reign of Charles IX, while many noble Protestants were in Paris on the occasion of the marriage of Henry of Navarre, the future Henry IV, to Margaret of Valois, sister of Charles IX, the St. Bartholomew’s Day massacre occurred; begun on 24 August, it lasted several days and spread throughout the country. During the Fronde, Parisians rose in rebellion and the royal family fled the city (1648). King Louis XIV then moved the royal court permanently to Versailles in 1682.

A century later, Paris was the centre stage for the French Revolution, with the Storming of the Bastille on 14 July 1789 and the overthrow of the monarchy in September 1792.

Paris was occupied by Russian Cossack and Kalmyk cavalry units upon Napoleon’s defeat on the 31st of March 1814; this was the first time in 400 years that the city had been conquered by a foreign power. The ensuing Restoration period, or the return of the monarchy under Louis XVIII (1814–1824) and Charles X, ended with the July Revolution Parisian uprising of 1830.

The new ‘constitutional monarchy’ under Louis-Philippe ended with the 1848 « February Revolution » that led to the creation of the Second Republic.

Throughout these events, cholera epidemics in 1832 and 1849 ravaged the population of Paris; the 1832 epidemic alone claimed 20,000 of the population of 650,000.

The greatest development in Paris’s history began with the Industrial Revolution creation of a network of railways that brought an unprecedented flow of migrants to the capital from the 1840s. The city’s largest transformation came with the 1852 Second Empire under Napoleon III; his préfet Haussmann levelled entire districts of Paris’ narrow, winding medieval streets to create the network of wide avenues and neo-classical façades that still make much of modern Paris; the reason for this transformation was twofold, as not only did the creation of wide boulevards beautify and sanitize the capital, it also facilitated the effectiveness of troops and artillery against any further uprisings and barricades that Paris was so famous for. The Hotel Britannique was built in 1860.

The Second Empire ended in the Franco-Prussian War (1870–1871), and a besieged Paris under heavy bombardment surrendered on 28 January 1871. The discontent of Paris’ populace with the new armistice-signing government seated in Versailles resulted in the creation of a Parisian « Commune » government, supported by an army in large part created from members of the City’s former National Guard, that would both continue resistance against the Prussians and oppose the government « Versaillais » army. The result was a bloody week Semaine Sanglante that resulted in the death, many by summary execution, of roughly 20,000 « communards » before the fighting ended on May 28, 1871. The ease at which the Versaillais army overtook Paris owed much to Baron Haussmann’s earlier renovations.

France’s late 19th-century Universal Expositions made Paris an increasingly important centre of technology, trade and tourism. Its most famous were the 1889 Universal Exposition to which Paris owes its « temporary » display of architectural engineering prowess, the Eiffel Tower, a structure that remained the world’s tallest building until 1930; the 1900 Universal Exposition saw the opening of the first Paris Métro line.

« Fluctuat nec mergitur », meaning « He was beaten by the waves but does not sink ». It is about the « Scilicet », ship also represented on the crest of the city and symbol of powerful corporation of the Boatmen

Source : Wikipedia

Some museums to visit

• Musée Carnavalet
• Crypte archeolique du parvis Notre-Dame
• Musée Cognacq-Jay

Romantic Paris Hotel

Hotel Britannique Paris Romantic Paris Hotel, 3 star Hotel Paris

…. France’s ‘Iron Lady’, the Eiffel Tower – the symbol of romantic Paris. Definitely the dreamiest view of the tower is at night, especially from dusk when the tower lights up with thousands of glittering lights. The perfect place to propose to your loved one, Rod Stewart and Tom Cruise are amongst the millions who agree….

To find out more: http://www.tour-eiffel.fr/teiffel/uk/index.html

….the ‘most beautiful avenue  in the world’, Champs Elysées.  The Arc de Triumph stands triumphant at the top, delighting the shoppers who are busily going about their business.

To find out more: http://www.champselysees.org/

….Saint-Germain-des-Prés, one of the oldest parts of Paris. A renowned haunt of the old intellectuals relishing in the cafes and jazz music. The ambience here has very little changed, and is a perfect place to enjoy an aperitif or a bite to eat. Try the ‘deux magots’ or ‘la Brasserie Lipp’ and then saunter on to the Panthéon in the Latin Quarter, a truly romantic hangout….

To find out more : http://www.saint-germain-paris.net/#

….one of the two natural islands of Paris, Île de la Cité. Here you can find Paris’ famous Notre Dame and Le Palais de Justice, and stand in the very centre of Paris where the medieval city was refounded….

Métro : Cité  (line 4)

….or the second natural island of Paris, l’Ile Saint Louis which cannot be missed by those wishing to take a leisurely stroll or enjoy a romantic meal. The perfect time to visit is in the evening, heading down rue Saint-Louis-en-l’Île which is lit up by the candle light from its many quaint restaurants. Don’t forget to stop and take a night cap at the Brasserie d’ Île St. Louis or treat yourself to one of Berthillon’s ice cream – renowned for their excellent quality and use of natural ingredients….

Métro : Cité  (line 4)

To find out more: http://www.notredamedeparis.fr/

.…the East of Paris, where you will find the enchanting Canal Saint-Martin. In the warmer months locals flock in droves to the banks of the canal to picnic and strum guitars. Cafés and quirky boutiques flank the water and iron footbridges. On Sundays, two streets running parallel to the canal are reserved for pedestrians and cyclists—perfect for renting a bike and seeing the city from a fresh angle. Another possibility is to take a tour of the canal by boat. Visitors of all ages should find something to love alongside the Canal Saint-Martin….

Métro : gare de l’est (lines 4, 5  and 7) or Jaurès (lines 5 and 2)

….or why not the charming Luxembourg gardens of the French Senat? Perhaps the perfect place to share a picnic with your loved one – pull your chairs together facing the majestic Médicis fountain and get lost in the regal surroundings….

To find out more: http://www.senat.fr/lng/en/palais.html

…. the Buttes Chaumont, one of the numerous Parisian parks but unique with its cliffs, bridges, and grotto which encloses a 20-meter high waterfall. Walk alongside the lake, and enjoy the several sorts of gardens. This truly romantic spot, seemingly  isolated from the noise of Paris, is also a favourite setting for those wishing to elope….

Bus : lines 48, 60 stopping at Botzaris ; the line 48, 60, 75 stopping at Mairie du XIXe, or also the line 26 stopping at Botzaris-Butte Chaumont.

Métro : line 7, « Botzaris » or « Buttes Chaumont », also line 5, leaving at « Laumière » then continuing on foot down the avenue.

….the peace and tranquility at the other side of the city, in the Parc Monceau. Another great get-away from the hub of Paris and perfect for those seeking a bit of tranquility….

Métro : Monceau (line 2). Summer hours : 7h-22h. Winter hours : 7h-20h

….or equally escape to the peace and harmony of the south side of Paris, in the gardens of the Parc Montsouris. Here you will find the English styled garden, expanding 15 hectares with its northeast portion covering an historic entrance to the Paris catacombs….

To find out more: http://www.parisinfo.com/sites-culturels/1281/montsouris-parc-

.…or travel East to the spawling parc le bois de Vincennes. Situated on the site of the14th-century fortified chateau, the Chateau de Vincennes, the Bois de Vincennes offers seemingly endless space to stroll, picnic, boat, and unwind. Despite its location on the city’s border, it is easily accessible and perfect for those romantics of all ages….

To find out more: http://www.boisdevincennes.com/site/index.php3

.…to the Western side of Paris,  in order to enjoy the Bois de Boulogne, running all the way down the west side of the 16e. It was supposedly modelled on London’s Hyde Park – but is never the less a very French interpretation which offers endless possibilities. Why not take a romantic horse ride or take a boat out on the lake? Appreciate the flower displays or even try your luck at the race course? Whatever the decision there is plenty of choice for the family, and of course the romantics….

Métro : Porte Maillot (line 1), Porte Dauphine (line 2) or Porte d’Auteuil (line 10)

….to the metro stop Abbesses from where you will find the Sacré-cœur, in the heart of Montmartre. Here the winding uphill streets are crammed with artists, cafes and souvenir shops. Amazingly this is a part of Paris which seems completely disconnected to the rest of it, retaining much of it’s old village like status with the imposing Sacré-cœur looking down on the rest of the world. Walk up the Basilica’s flight of stairs and take in the view of the city. For those less energetic, take to a bench by the carousel lovingly portrayed in the film Amelie. Continue your film in Amelie’s café at 15 rue Lepic and then find the door to Van Gogh’s house at number 54. Why not even attend one of the alternative wedding ceremonies taking place, where one vows ‘not to marry the other’ but in doing so vows to remain fiancées for the rest of their lives….

To find out more : http://www.lepic-abbesses.com/article.php3?id_article=505

http://www.lepic-abbesses.com/

Métro : Abbesses (line 12)

….to the district of Le Marais. Once a mere swampland, the Marais (meaning swamp) is now one of the most sumptuous and surprising quarters of Paris, expanding from the Bastille area right up to l’Hôtel de Ville. It is also one of the few areas which has preserved the narrow streets and architectural styles of Medieval and Renaissance-era Paris. Its dramatic residences, artisan’s boutiques, galleries, lavish squares, and its mix of culture are worth reserving at least a half-day of exploration for….

To find out more : http://www.parislemarais.com/

….to the breath-taking place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris also located in le Marais. This is a favourite place of many of Paris’ visitors, thanks to its beautiful and refreshing garden….

Métro : Bastille (lines 5,1 and 8 )

….Or take a seat at the The Palais Garnier, also named the Opéra de Paris and described as the ‘great theatre of the world’. This truly spectacular building has been impressing the public since its inauguration in 1875 and is still host to the most amazing spectacles today. Whether just visiting the monument or enjoying one its fine shows, it is sure to leave a long lasting impression….

To find out more : http://www.operadeparis.fr/cns11/live/onp/

….Stand in awe in front of the renowned  sculpture ‘The Kiss’ by Rodin. The Musée Rodin holds an exceptional collection of his works, including bronze castings, plaster studies, drawings, prints, letters, and books. There is also, notably, a stunning exhibition by Henri Moore set to commence in October 2010. Not to be missed by those who are lovers of the arts…..

To find out more : http://www.musee-rodin.fr/accueil.htm

….the unmissable Louvre, standing between la Place du Palais Royal and le jardin des Tuileries. Explore the immense museum, but be warned this could often take days, there really is an immense collection of works. If time is precious, simply enjoy a café on the terrasse du Marly or relax on the grass in the impressive grounds, and for those wishing to purchase their own pieces of art there is a good collection of antiques an art objects to purchase below the museum….

Métro : Palais Royal (lines 7, 1)

…the delightful musée de la Vie romantique. This museum is particularly precious for its rose garden, a little piece of paradise tucked away from the busy streets of Paris. It is also perfect place to sip a cup of tea whilst reading your favorite novel or writing postcards to your friends. Home of the portraitist Ary Scheffer, this 19th-century hôtel particulier—Hôtel Scheffer-Renan—saw a lot of famous artists such as Delacroix, Géricault, George Sand, Chopin, Rossini, Dickens… It is today a museum dedicated to the works of the painter Ary Scheffer himself as well as the ones of neighbor and friend George Sand. Take advantage also of the charming restaurant, not very well known but promises an idyllic evening in its luxurious surroundings.

To find out more : http://www.paris.fr/portail/loisirs/Portal.lut?page_id=5851

…to the offskirts of the Boulevard Haussmann. Take the time to enjoy artistic journey through the heart of the Italian Renaissance, enjoy the 18th century French masterpieces and the works by the Flemish masters. Discover such treasures in an authentic mansion that is just a stone’s throw from the Champs Elysées. A perfect break from the shopping frenzy, this is the musée Jacquemart-André – a must for anyone passionate about art and architecture (and tired of the shops!)….

To find out more : http://www.musee-jacquemart-andre.com/en/jacquemart/

…..to the surrounding area of the Parc Monceau and delight in the treasures at the  musée de Nissim de Camondo of the decorative arts. The pre-World War I town house was donated to the Musée des Arts Décoratifs by Comte Moïse de Camondo in memory of his son, Nissim, a French aviator killed in combat during World War I. The museum is like the home of an aristocrat — rich with needlepoint chairs, tapestries (many from Beauvais or Aubusson), antiques, paintings, bas-reliefs, silver, Chinese vases, crystal chandeliers, Sèvres porcelain, Savonnerie carpets, and even an Houdon bust.

To find out more : http://www.lesartsdecoratifs.fr/francais/nissim-de-camondo/

Those places out of the ordinary:

….at south of the former city gate, the « Barrière d’Enfer » (the barrier of hell), and at today’s Place Denfert-Rochereau is the Catacombs. Perhaps not one of Paris’ most romantic places, but undeniably emotive and equally eerie – said to be one of the 10 most haunted places in the city. Take a walk through the dark passages of the catacombs which will take you past the remains of millions of Parisians, carefully stacked skull-upon-skull, and labeled by their year of burial. Not the most appealing of outings for some but it certainly gives rise to the curiosities and emotions – for you to judge!

To find out more: http://www.catacombes-de-paris.fr/

…… the most famous cemeteries in the world, Père Lachaise. Here lies James de Rothschild, Colette, Edith Piaf and of course Jim Morrison. Again perhaps not the set in the most romantic context however you will be impressed by the tomb of Oscar Wilde, covered in lipstick kisses and adorned with love letters. An alternative romantic stroll……

To find out more : http://www.pere-lachaise.com/

And then visit:

Le Pont des Arts with its lover’s padlocks and art exhibitions

Le Pont Neuf, the oldest standing bridge in Paris and the setting for the French film ‘Lovers on the Bridge’

Others suggestions :

For those great romantics, several sites lend themselve to the most impressive weddings, opposite the Tower Eiffel or at the top of the Mound Montmartre, it’s your choice!

To find out more:  www.be-my-love-in-paris.com

L’œnologie en histoire is a project put together by certain wine experts who wish to share their passion for France’s greatest produce.

To find out more: http://www.museeduvinparis.com/francais/

A last flavoursome idea comes in the form of cheese tasting. Why not spend a day tasting some of France’s 400 types of cheese and famous wines. It would be rude not to, ‘when in Rome’ – or Paris….

To find out more: www.mygenieinparis.com/en/r/7/gourmet_paris__off_the_beaten_tracks.html?lang=en

Unmissable views:

Le Jules Verne, the restaurant situated some 125 meters above the ground at top of the Tower Eiffel, offers  unrestricted views of the four corners of Paris… Think about to reserve in advance!

To find out more: http://www.lejulesverne-paris.com/

Le Ciel de Paris, situated to the 56th floor of the Tower Montparnasse, offers the experience to dine and enjoy a view as equally impressive.  Once again, don’t forget to reserve!

To find out more:  http://www.cieldeparis.com/

The Hotel Britannique has also been named a favourite romantic place by its many couples who have chosen to spend their honey moon there. Only a few minutes from the Tour Saint Jacques, the Avenue Victoria seems like she too can win over the hearts .

Feel at ease to share with us your experiences of  romantic Paris and even help us discover new ones….

Whether it is for a marriage proposal, a wedding anniversary, a romantic surprise, or any other occasion of love, we created, for you, about thirty romantic experiences which will totally amaze your sweetheart !

Hotel Britannique Paris Romantic Paris Hotel, 3 star Hotel Paris