Paris is the capital and largest city of France and the capital of the Île-de-France région (also known as 'Région Parisienne') that, encompassing Paris and its suburbs ('petite' et 'Grande Couronne', ie Paris and seven departements). The city is situated on the banks of the River Seine.

FACTS AND FIGURES

• Population: 2.150 million
• The international capital of fashion, art, and gastronomy, it is widely regarded as one of the world's major global cities
• The city headquarters of many international organisations such as UNESCO, the OECD, the ICC, or the informal Paris Club.
• Represents France's most dynamic centre of economic activity and one of the world economic engine being in fact the fifth world biggest economy by metro area.
• Frankish King Clovis resided in Paris and became capital of France in 987
• Paris was center of French Revolution, which started with fall of city's Bastille prison in 1789, and was capital of Napoleon's vast empire
• Hosted Olympic Games in 1900 and 1924

SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS

• Eiffel Tower, Completed in 1889, this colossal landmark, although initially hated by many Parisians, is now a famous symbol of French civic pride.
• Notre Dame Cathedral, this famous cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture on which construction began in the 12th century, stands on the Île de la Cité and is the symbolic heart of the city.
• Luxembourg Gardens, these formal gardens, open to only royalty before the French Revolution, now serve as one of Paris's most popular destinations for relaxation.
• Louvre Palace-Museum, home to Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, the Louvre is considered the world's greatest art museum, with an unparalleled collection of items covering the full spectrum of art through the ages.
• Arc de Triomphe, This world-famous landmark structure has served ever since the days of Napoleon as a symbol of victory for triumphant French troops returning home.
• Pantheon, this ancient church is the resting place for many of France's greatest heroes.