Paris: A traveler’s paradise

Prompt: The Daily Topic: Where Does Real Magic Exist? Write About That Place.

An enchanting city sets a paradigm in itself. Situated on the River Seine, in northern France, this city truly captivates you with ecstasy. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world – Paris, encapsulates nobility and splendor. It is one of the world’s leading business, education, political, entertainment and fashion hub. Monuments and churches define architectural genius whereas innumerable museums showcase exquisite art and sculptures.

A few must sees in Paris:

- The Eiffel Tower: This symbol of Paris was built in 1889 for the International Exhibition of Paris; the architectural genius being Gustave Eiffel. It stands tall at 300 metres (320.75 m incl. antenna) weighing 7000 tons.
- Arc de Triomphe: This monument was completed in 1836 though was specially ordered to be made by Napoleon in 1806 after his victory in Austerlitz. It stands on 4 huge pillars showcasing 4 sculptures which commemorate The Triumph of 1810 (Cortot); Resistance, and Peace (both by Etex); and The Departure of the Volunteers or the La Marseillaise (Rude). The eternal flame and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the arc memorialize the dead of the two world wars.
- Notre-Dame de Paris: This grand cathedral was constructed between the years 1163 and 1345. This work of genius was conceived by Maurice de Sully during the reign of Louis VII. The ‘0 km’ mark on the square in front of the cathedral assists in computing road distances in France.
- Le Sacré Coeur: The design of this basilica by the architect Abadie, draws eternal reverence. Completed in 1914, it was sanctified only after the World War I. The interior of this church depicts Christ with outspread arms and consists of the world’s largest mosaics.
- Musée du Louvre: Walking into Louvre bestows one with bliss. This museum which was originally a fortress was constructed in the 12th century under Philip II, opened as a museum in 1793. It boasts of over 35,000 objects from the 6th century BC to the 19th century displayed in over 60,000 square meters. It is divided in 3 wings, namely Sully, Denon and Richelieu. The display of art is in eight curatorial departments consisting of paintings, prints, sculptures, Islamic art, and Egyptian, Greek, Eastern and Roman antiquities including its most prized possession: Leonardo Da Vinci’s masterpiece - The Mona Lisa.

The list is endless. One can also visit the Palace of Versailles, Musée de Orsay, La Défense, La Sainte-Chapelle, the science museum, a shopper’s paradise: Galeries Lafayette, one of the most famous roads in the world: Champs-Élysées, Tuileries Gardens, the Bateaux Mouches or the boat rides on the river Seine which is incredibly pleasant, and many more.

Moving around is Paris is extremely easy with its well connected Metro, bus and RER syatem. Finally, don’t forget the French cuisine customarily accompanied with the famous French wine.

The aura of Paris and the desire to visit the city yet again stays in the mind of travelers for years to come.