For me, traveling is just about getting to go to some destination and elbowing my way through crowds just to see or do some once-in-a-lifetime activity. When I travel, I like to soak up the history, the culture, and of course the world around me.
As a self-proclaimed historian, all of France is my little oyster of history and stories needing to be told. The French Revolution has always fascinated me, not only did it last for ten years but it was the template for other governments across Europe.
Without the revolution in France, it makes you wonder if the Romanovs would have been murdered, or the Hapsburgs would have been tossed on their ear, etc.
In this blog post, I’m giving you my dream Paris Itinerary-Travel the Steps of the French Revolution.
Paris Itinerary-Travel the Steps of the French Revolution
Hôtel de Ville
Just three days after the Bastille was stormed, the Hôtel de Ville-City Hall-was taken over and used as the Revolutionary government’s headquarters.
At this time, Louis XVI also appeared on the balcony where he witnessed the tri-colored flag (blue/white/red) and was pleasantly surprised he was also greeted by a cheering crowd.
Notre Dame de Paris
I wanna say, I have always wanted to see this cathedral. When I learned it took over 100 years to build and that it was one of the jewels in Paris, I knew I had to see it.
When I finally made it to Paris and got to Notre Dame, I was surprised just how small it was. I know that is silly but honestly, it is not as big as you think!
This picture was taken a few months after the fire, at the time I wrote this post the repairs had been completed and the cathedral is once again open.
Having been repressed by the monarchy and the Catholic Church, most of the church and religious imagery was destroyed or damaged.
However, later this is the place where Napoleon I crowned himself Emporer of France. This is incredibly important. One, the government wanted to anoint him king but considering the country was still sensitive to the absolute monarchy they chose the emperor. Second, he was self-crowned not crowned by a Cardinal or Bishop from the Church.
Third, it is this act that made England and other monarchies nervous, if this dude from Croita could make himself king, perhaps others would want to try as well.
In addition to the cultural significance of the cathedral, this is also the site where several former presidents’ funerals were held.
Even if you’re not into the French Revolution and you only want to explore, the cathedral is a must-see.
final thoughts
This is only the beginning of exploring through Paris and following the steps of the French Revolution. It is a history nerd’s ideal visit.
