Paris is one of the most exciting capitals in Europe. It is known as the city of romance and remains a mecca for artists. It also delights in a reputation for learning and intellectuals and many a wise man observes life by strolling along its boulevards. This volume guides you through the city's varied history and its vivid present, from its ancient guise as "Lutetia" through the era of its great kings and the French Revolution to the 21st century with its spectacular architectural projects. Numerous essays spotlight the key points in the city's hsitory, relate diverse tales of its famous inhabitants and expound upon the background for the unique mythos of Paris.

Paris is one of the most exciting capitals in Europe--a Mecca for artists, a center for intellectuals and academics, and a stage for the flaneur. This volume acts as a companion to the metropolis on the Seine through its eventful history and the buzz of the present day, from the Lutetia of antiquity through the era of the great kings and revolutions to the 21st century with its stunning architectural projects. There are plenty of digressions along the way, providing insights into the city's historical turning points, telling the stories of its most famous and illuminating the background to the "City of Light."