Paris

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Paris, the capital city of France, is situated in the north-central part of the country, along the River Seine. Founded in the 3rd century BCE by a Celtic people called the Parisii, it became an important center of commerce and culture during the Roman Empire. In the Middle Ages, Paris emerged as one of the leading centers for education and the arts, home to institutions such as the University of Paris, which was founded in the 12th century. The city has played a central role in numerous historical events, including the French Revolution of 1789, which had a lasting impact on France and the world.

Paris has been known for its cultural and architectural landmarks, such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and the Eiffel Tower, which was completed in 1889 for the World’s Fair. The city is also famous for its art scene, having been home to movements like Impressionism in the late 19th century. In the 20th century, Paris became a hub for the avant-garde, attracting artists, writers, and thinkers from around the globe. The Montmartre and Montparnasse districts were particularly well-known for being creative centers.

Paris is also a major center for fashion and luxury goods, hosting Paris Fashion Week, one of the "Big Four" fashion weeks, and serving as headquarters for numerous fashion houses. The Champs-Élysées, one of the city's most famous streets, is home to high-end retail shops and historic monuments like the Arc de Triomphe. Paris is also renowned for its gastronomy, offering a wide variety of dining options, from world-class Michelin-starred restaurants to local bistros.

The city is divided into 20 arrondissements, each with its own distinct character and attractions. Paris’s population is around 2.1 million people, but the metropolitan area, known as Île-de-France, has a population of over 12 million, making it one of the largest urban areas in Europe. The city serves as a political, cultural, and economic center for France and Europe, with significant influence in global diplomacy, finance, and the arts. It is the headquarters for international organizations such as UNESCO and the OECD.

Paris’s transportation system is highly developed, with its metro, buses, and RER trains connecting the city to surrounding suburbs. The city is also served by two major international airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly. Paris is a top global tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year to experience its museums, historical sites, and cultural events.