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Population: 64,057,792 Dialing Code: +33 Languages: French 100%, rapidly declining regional dialects and languages (Provencal, Breton, Alsatian, Corsican, Catalan, Basque, Flemish) Religions: Roman Catholic 83%-88%, Protestant 2%, Jewish 1%, Muslim 5%-10%, unaffiliated 4% Located: metropolitan France: Western Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay and English Channel, between Belgium and Spain, southeast of the UK; bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Italy and Spain French Guiana: Northern South America, bordering the North Atlan Residents with HIV: 140,000 Literacy: 99% Comparative Size: slightly less than the size of Texas Nationality Noun: Frenchman(men), Frenchwoman(women) Nationality Adjective: French currencyEUR |
Set against the backdrop of stunning mountain ranges, gurgling streams and lush woods are the many stupendous regions of France with their marvelous monuments, castles and cathedrals. The beaches in France are an attraction of their own, allowing nudists to shed their inhibitions.
Talk of Paris and one cannot help but conjure images of the Eiffel Tower! Built in 1889, by Gustuve Eiffel, to commemorate the centenary of the French Revolution, it's one of the world's most visited and photographed attractions. Rising to 984 ft, it has three platforms, which offer panoramic views of Paris. The pre-sunset view from the topmost platforms is stunning. Situated atop the tower, are Altitude 95 and Jules Verne, two very expensive restaurants. Another attraction is the wax figure of Gustave Eiffel in his office!
The Arc de Triomphe, Paris a symbol of French patriotism was begun by Napolean Bonaparte in 1806, as a monument to his troops. It was completed by King Louis Phillippe in 1836. Under the arch, lies the tombs of France's unknown soldiers of World War-I.
The most beautiful avenue in the world-The Avenue des Champs-Elysees, is the most prestigious streets in Paris, with luxury specialty shops, cinemas and cafes.
Between River Seine and the Rue de Rivoli, is The Louvre Museum, Paris, certainly the largest and most famous museums in the world! The 800 year old building was once a royal fortress, exhibiting rare antiques up to the 19th century including Egyptian, Roman, Greek and Middle- Ages. Leonardo da Vinci's world-famous masterpiece, Mona Lisa is showcased here!
The Orsay Museum, Paris is interesting, given its location-it occupies a restored railway station in Paris. It displays various artifacts, including works of impressionists.
The George Pompidon is a huge public reference library and museum of modern art. Another place with a scientific tempo is The Museum of Man, showcasing scientific exhibits.
At the outskirts of Paris, is Fountainebleau, famous for its enchanting woods and magnificent chateau. The forest of Fountainebleau is a protected area, with rare flora and fauna, including butterflies of myriad hues. It's recognized as a national park. In the midst of lush green woods, is The Chateau de Fountainebleau, with elegant interiors. Nearby is the Fountainebleau Golf Club.
The Chenonceaux and the Loire Valley(Country of Thousand Castles), near Tours are famous for their castles, including the Chateaux Amboise and Chateau de Chambord. The entire place contains many neo-classical and Renaissance architectural marvels- mansions, museums, abbeys and cathedrals. The Cathedral of Chartres is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The region is also famous for its wines. The Palace of Versailles surrounded by verdant gardens, fountains and sculptures, it's a masterpiece of French classical architecture. Within is the Hall of Mirrors.
Breathtakingly beautiful are the Cliffs of Normandy, rising along the English Channel in northern France. The ancient rocks form natural arcs! Mount. Blanc is the highest point in France rising 15,771 ft. The sunny Rivera and The Corsica Islands are beaches where nudists roam freely.