Old Paris: Around the Seine and the Marais
The Marais is the jewish neighborhood in medieval times and retains its narrow twisting street plan and ancient houses. It is now artist central of the right bank and also the gay district, filled with chic boutiques and art galleries. Place des Vosges, Paris' oldest square is still considered the most elegant one. Also in the Marais the amazing Carnavalet Museum is the history museum of the city of Paris.
The islands in the Seine River are the birthplace of the city due to the defensive location surrounded by water. The city's judicial institutions are still based on the island, right next to the well-preserved medieval Saint Chapel. The famous Notre Dame Cathedral is a massive yet delicate Gothic masterpiece, it is officially the very center of France.Another artistic district on the right bank is Montmartre, on a high hill with grand views of Paris skyline. We were mesmerized by the skills of the quick sketch artists on our way to the Sacred Heart Cathedral.
The River Seine is the perfect backdrop to the lively daily strolls and bicycle rides of Parisians, stopping to form small crowds around street performers, or spreading out a picnic with friends in the many exquisite parks and paths along the river banks.
The web's original travel blog
