Paris, known as the “City of Love,” is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, but there are many things about the city that even the most avid traveller may not know. Here are 7 things you didn’t know about Paris:
The Eiffel Tower was Originally Meant to be Temporary.
The Eiffel Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris, was originally meant to be a temporary structure. Built for the 1889 World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower was only intended to stand for 20 years, but it was so popular that it was allowed to remain standing.
Paris has an Underground River
The River Bièvre, which flows through Paris, is mostly hidden underground. The river was covered over in the 19th century to make way for new buildings, but parts of it can still be seen in some of the city’s underground tunnels.
The Catacombs of Paris
The Catacombs of Paris is a network of underground tunnels that contain the remains of over six million people. The tunnels were once limestone quarries but were converted into a mass grave in the late 18th century to help alleviate the city’s overflowing cemeteries.
Paris has its own beach.
Paris Plages is an annual event that transforms the banks of the Seine into a beach. The event, which usually runs from July to August, features sand, palm trees, and deck chairs, allowing Parisians and visitors to enjoy a beach vacation without leaving the city.
The Louvre is the world’s largest museum.
The Louvre is the largest art museum in the world, with over 380,000 works of art. It is also one of the most visited museums in the world, with over 10 million visitors per year.
Paris is home to the world’s smallest street.
The Passage des Deux-Ponts is considered the world’s smallest street, measuring just 2.4 meters wide. The street is in the 4th arrondissement and is lined with small shops and restaurants.
Paris has its own Hollywood Sign
Paris has its own version of the Hollywood sign, known as the “Montmartre Sign.” The sign, located on the hill of Montmartre, spells out “Hollywood” in large white letters and is a popular spot for tourists to take pictures.
In conclusion, Paris is a city with many hidden secrets and surprises. From the Eiffel Tower’s temporary origins to the city’s underground river and Catacombs, these facts will surprise and delight visitors. Next time you visit Paris, take a moment to discover these hidden gems and make your trip even more memorable.
