Paris
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| Eiffel Tower |
Paris – is the capital of France and the largest city in the country. Its population is 2,233,818 people (according to 2010), but in the urban district (Paris unité urbaine), where Paris itself is only the central part, the population is about 10,142,977 people (according to 2006). Parisian metropolitan, or the Paris agglomeration, with the suburb, make up 12,672,000 of the population and is considered to be one of the most populated metropolitan areas in Europe.
The territory of Paris was first occupied by Celtic tribe «Cenon», who settled along the Seine River about 250 B. C. Paris was founded by Gauls (Parisians) in the III century B.C., who inhabited the island of the Seine’s river during the Roman conquest. The historic center of Paris – is Cite Island, where the city was initially founded. At present time here you may find, such architectural creations as: the Palace of Justice (Palais de Justice) and world-famous Notre Dame de Paris. In ancient times, Paris was called «Lutetia» or «Lyuteche», which meant « sough ». It is very well characterized by the motto of the city: «Fluctuat nec mergitur», which translated from Latin as «Swim, but doesn’t sink». The main changes in the infrastructure of the city took place under the rule of Napoleon III, from 1852 to 1865 were destroyed about 13.134 buildings and erected 59.215 new buildings and houses. Paris changed cardinally its look for 13 years.
At present time, Paris is the most important economic and cultural center of the country , situated on the river Seine in the north of France, in the center of the Ile-de – France region (also known as «Paris Region» ). In 2001 in Paris was first created a beach on the river Seine. Where locals and tourists have a great opportunity to sunbathe during the day time, or are entertained by live music concert programs in the fresh air in the evening.
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| Montmartre |
