Europe, France, Read About Can't Miss Places

Great Museums of Paris—Musée Rodin

The Musée Rodin in Paris houses the legacy of sculptor Auguste Rodin, including pieces like The Thinker. The museum, opened in 1919, is located in the Hotel Biron, where the artist once worked. The site offers a glimpse into the Belle Époque era and the artist's life, making it a must-see in Paris.

Europe, France, Read About Can't Miss Places

Great Museums of Paris–The Conciergerie

The Conciergerie, a former palace turned prison, holds significant historical importance. With ties to French royalty, it became a place of fear and inequality during the revolution. The museum offers a sobering reminder of the horrors of war and societal unrest. The building itself serves as a powerful artifact and is a must-visit in Paris.

Europe, France, Read About Can't Miss Places

Great Museums in Paris—Musée de Cluny

In recent years, I developed a fondness for medieval art and history, particularly through visits to the Cluny Museum in Paris. The museum's collection includes Roman baths, sculptures, stained-glass windows, and the iconic Lady and the Unicorn tapestries. I recommend using the Museum Pass to explore this and other historical sites in Paris efficiently.

Europe, France, Read About Can't Miss Places

La Tour Eiffel–Symbol of Industrialism

The Eiffel Tower, an iconic Paris landmark, fascinated a U.S. historian due to its historical significance. Initially dismissing it as touristy, the historian's perspective shifted upon learning about its role at the 1893 World's Fair. Approaching it, thoughts turned to the laborers who built it, instilling a newfound appreciation for the structure.

Europe, France, Read About Can't Miss Places

An American Historian in Paris

In Paris, Cafe Procope stands as the oldest cafe, holding significant historical importance as a meeting place for Enlightenment thinkers and influential figures like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Thomas Jefferson. The cafe serves as a tangible link to the past, offering a unique and exciting historical experience for visitors, making it a must-visit spot in Paris.