The history of Paris dates back to ancient times. Archaeological excavations and discovered artifacts reveal that the area was inhabited as early as the 4th millennium B.C. It’s a long and fascinating history filled with notable events, which we’ll explore throughout this article.
When was Paris founded? Who founded the city of Paris? Around 259 B.C., a permanent settlement was established on the banks of the Seine by the Celtic tribe known as the Parisii. The river’s resources allowed the settlement to expand quickly, helping it grow into an important colony in this part of Europe.
This Celtic tribe inhabited the region for two centuries until it was conquered by the Romans, who in 52 B.C. founded the ancient city of Lutetia, named after the original Celtic inhabitants of the area. This marked a significant turning point for the city, beginning its transformation and modernization.
This was essentially how Paris emerged in ancient times, starting the journey of one of the world’s most famous cities. From a small settlement conquered by the Romans, it evolved into what we now know as the City of Light.
If you’d like to dive deeper into Paris’s history, here is a comprehensive documentary on the city:
And if you’re exploring the history of Paris because you’re planning to visit soon, I recommend these highly recommended activities that will give you even more insight into this remarkable city’s past:
- Les Invalides: Napoleon’s Tomb and Museum Entry
- Guided Walking Tour of Jewish History in Le Marais
- Palace of Versailles and Gardens with Transport from Paris
- Catacombs Entry with Audioguide and River Cruise
- Moulin Rouge Cabaret Ticket
Paris in the Middle Ages (History of Ancient Paris)
This is when Paris truly began its life as a medieval city.
During this period, Paris faced continuous attacks due to its strategic location. The Huns were the first major threat, against whom the Romans managed to withstand the siege.
Later, in the 6th century, the Germanic tribes took control of the city. Their king, Clovis, not only renamed the city Paris but also gave the nation the name “France.” This was one of the pivotal moments in Paris’s history.
The following centuries saw ongoing struggles and changes in reign. Medieval Paris became a crucial hub for international trade, especially known for its wine, which was exported all over Europe.
It was a time of significant urban development and transformation. Paris had already become a major political and educational center, notably with the founding of the University of Paris in 1150, later renowned as the Sorbonne.
Many of today’s iconic monuments began construction during the Middle Ages, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, which began in 1163 and took over a century to complete, making it one of Paris’s most complex structures.
Despite a wide social divide and crowded, dirty streets, Paris continued to thrive economically. Merchants from across Europe gathered to sell their goods in one of the continent’s emerging cities.
The Modern Age
The Modern Age was a period of substantial urban, social, and cultural transformation. By this time, Paris was already the most important city in France and a center for art, science, and philosophy, with figures like René Descartes emerging, as well as the establishment of Paris’s first botanical garden, symbolizing a growing interest in science and nature.
By around 1500, Paris had become one of Europe’s largest cities, second only to Constantinople. Henry IV ascended to the throne and ushered in a period of city reconstruction and cultural flourishing, with notable figures like Voltaire emerging.
Architectural development was prominent under Henry IV and Louis XIII, marked by the construction of places such as the Place Royale and the development of the Marais district. Later, statesmen such as Richelieu and Colbert played vital roles in French history.
Louis XIV, Henry IV’s successor, undertook one of the era’s most iconic projects: the construction of the Palace of Versailles, his magnificent residence.
The 17th century saw the creation of grand boulevards and avenues to improve city circulation while maintaining Paris’s aesthetic appeal. Paris became the center of political and social life.
During this late phase of the Modern Age, rising social and political tensions ultimately led to the storming of the Bastille in 1789, a pivotal moment that changed not only Paris but also the course of world history.
Contemporary Age
From the late 18th century to today, Paris has been the stage for significant events such as the French Revolution, the world wars, and the modernization of Paris under Haussmann’s direction.
The contemporary history of Paris begins with the French Revolution. Napoleon Bonaparte rose to power in one of the darkest periods in the history of France. He crowned himself emperor in 1806 at the Notre Dame Cathedral.
During his reign, Napoleon commissioned monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe and the Palais de la Bourse in an attempt to immortalize his military victories and demonstrate the empire’s economic and territorial power. This era is marked by the infamous Napoleonic Wars. Ultimately, the French Empire was defeated at the Battle of Nations in Leipzig in 1813, leading the territories under French control to fall into the hands of the Allied armies.
During this period, Napoleon assigned Georges-Eugène Haussmann the task of modernizing Paris. Haussmann developed broad avenues, new parks, and a completely redesigned sewer system. These renovations improved the city’s sanitation and shaped the look of Paris as we see it today.
In World War I, Paris became a center for military planning but was spared from direct combat. In contrast, during World War II, Paris was occupied by German forces. After the war, the city had to focus on rebuilding bombed areas, and it experienced significant economic growth around 1960, including the development of new districts to expand the city.
In the 21st century, Paris has faced challenges such as the rise in migration and terrorism, yet it remains a leading city in art, fashion, cuisine, and political thought.
World’s Fairs
Paris hosted several world’s fairs in the latter half of the 19th century, with the most famous taking place in 1889. Other notable fairs were held in 1855, 1867, 1878, 1889, and 1900. These events not only attracted visitors from around the globe but also led to major aesthetic changes in the city.
1889 World’s Fair
The primary goal of the 1889 World’s Fair was to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution. For the first time in the universal history of Paris, the city introduced its most iconic monument—the Eiffel Tower. Originally intended to be dismantled after the event, the Eiffel Tower captivated visitors so much that it became a permanent landmark.
These exhibitions showcased the latest advancements in technology, art, and culture, featuring steam engines, electric motors, and artwork from around the world. They were essentially the “Google” of the Victorian era, a way to experience the best and newest innovations of humanity.
Each fair left its positive mark on Paris, including:
- Improved boulevards
- Installation of gas and electric lighting
- Construction of public parks and buildings
These world’s fairs contributed to Paris’s reputation as the capital of culture and fashion, making it a place where people from around the world could meet, share ideas, and be inspired.