Paris, the City of Light, is one of the most beautiful and iconic cities in the world. But just how old is this magical place, and what are its origins?
Paris is over 2,000 years old, with a history that stretches back to the third century BC. The city was founded by a Celtic people known as the Parisii, who named the settlement Lutetia. At the time, Paris was just a small village located on the Île de la Cité, a small island in the middle of the Seine River.
The city’s fortunes began to change in the first century BC, when it was conquered by the Romans. The Romans renamed the city Parisius, and it quickly grew into a major trade center, thanks to its location on the river. Many of the city’s most famous landmarks date back to this period, including the Thermes de Cluny, a Roman bath complex that is now a museum.
In the fifth century AD, Paris was invaded by Germanic tribes, who ruled the city until the Frankish king Clovis I took control in the late 5th century. Clovis made Paris the capital of his kingdom, and it remained the capital of France until the French Revolution.
Paris continued to grow and develop over the centuries, becoming one of the great centers of European culture and civilization. During the Renaissance, the city became a hub of artistic and intellectual activity, with figures such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo making their mark on the city.
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In the 19th century, Paris underwent a massive transformation, as Baron Haussmann redesigned the city with wide boulevards, public parks, and grand public buildings. This era of growth and modernization continued into the 20th century, with Paris remaining a global center of culture, fashion, and politics.
Today, Paris is one of the most famous and beloved cities in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year.
