Paris is a city where history is ubiquitous. Visitors to the city marvel at the opulence of the French monarchy embodied in the Chateau de Versailles, bibliophiles can’t help but imagine the lives of the Lost Generation in the City of Light, illuminated by a wealth of classic literature and Parisians themselves appreciate the paintings, architecture and cobblestone work of Frenchman past. France’s history is surely a proud one, marked by an undeniably French call to civic action. Like any country however, French history does have a dark side, one that needs to be remembered and reflected upon as much as any other period in Gallic history. Paris’ memorial de la Shoah is holding an exhibition until March 22 focusing on La Nuit de Cristal, one of the darkest nights in the history of the Europe’s Jewish population. New York Habitat has dozens of Paris apartments available in the city this winter, all with their own unique history and historic arrondissement.
The La Nuit de Cristal exhibition focuses on the night of the November 9th, 1938 where thousands of Jewish Germans were terrorized, many of them being murdered or sent to concentration camps. Countless Jewish storefronts, homes and synagogues were destroyed or vandalized by the Nazi government. Though the terror campaign occurred in Germany, the historical significance it had on France and the rest of Europe is clear in a modern historical context. The events of the Crystal Night were essentially a prelude to what occurred in many French cities, including Paris throughout the Second World War. For any history buff looking for some insight into WWII while jaunting around the French capital this might be a nice start. From here, buffs can walk the streets of Paris daydreaming of the war that once gripped the city and the brave resistance then eventually led to its liberation.
Winter is a nice time to spend exploring the history of Paris. It doesn’t get too cold, so going on wandering walks down the city’s boulevards and side streets is always a nice treat. Here are a few notable New York Habitat apartments close to the history and beauty of the French capital:
-This stately 3-bedroom apartment rental in Champs Elysees (PA-791) is located near the most famous and historic of all Parisian avenues.
-This 2-bedroom accommodation rental in Marais-Les Halles (PA-2389) mixes a modern flair with the history of its Parisian landscape.
What slice of history are you looking forward to exploring on your next trip to Paris?
The slice of History I am looking forward to explore is the Pre Revolution slice. Like the Palace of Versailles with King Louis XIV and Louis XVI. And of course the famous Queen Marie-Antoinette. I saw many pictures of the Palace Versailles and the Petit Trianon (the queen’s apartment). Hopefully I can do that summer 2009
The French capital is quite an amazing city and it hold so much history, from its art, to its architecture and cathedrals. It is a great city to see and experience, and a lot of hsitory to learn.
There is so many part of France’s History that I liked but if I have to pick one it would be a the Middle Age with the construction of Notre Dame Cathedral in Ile de la Cite. I will make sure to contact New York Habitat to look for an apartment in the heart of Paris.
I have been to Paris once in the past and I am planning on returning this upcoming summer. I went to the Louvre the last time, and also the Eiffel Tower, but this time around I am looking for different things to do, that are a bit less “touristy.” Can anyone offer me some good tips on where to go and what sights to see? I have heard of the D’Orsay Museum, but I would love some input. Thanks!
Hello Jacob, D’Orsay Museum is a great Museum if you like paintings and specially the impressionits painters, this is definitely the place to go. This museum is located on the Rive Gauche in the 7th arrondissement. This used to be a Train Station….
Hi Jacob,
The Eiffel Tower and the Louvre are wonderful, yet Paris has so much more to offer. Sometimes visitors to Paris can feel trapped within the swathes of tourists that storm the city. In reality, it is quite easy to get off the beaten path. For the most part, the city is very safe and visitors should put the guidebooks away and just go for a long meandering walk. There are dozens of galleries, cafes and quarters devoid of camera flashing tourists and offer a more authentic feel of the city. Start by browsing the archives of the NYHabitat Paris postings, there are a few gem articles that talk about unique places worth visiting. Good luck and bon voyage!
What you can visit the Institut du Monde Arabe (Institute of the Arabic World, this is a great way to learn about arabic traditions, culture. At the end of your visit you can enjoy a Morrocan tea with marrocan pastries. This is located in the 5th arrondissementclose to Gare D’Austerlitz.