Attractions in France
France is not only about delicious food, incredible romance, and fashion houses. France is all about impressive culture, atmosphere and stunning architecture. Some are simply original, while others are some of the most beautiful in the world. That alone is reason enough to visit the country, with all the culinary delights and dainties you would expect from a visit.
Palace of Versailles
Twenty kilometres from Paris lies Versailles, which has been a frequent occurrence in historical events. The park and palace complex is a major landmark in the respectable town. It used to be the royal residence, but today it is one of the iconic places to visit.
The palace is famous for its parks. These are an assortment of lush alleys, gardens, and orangeries. The vegetation is so varied that you can’t get enough of it all at once. In the XVIII century the palace and park complex served as a model for European architecture.
Fontainebleau Palace
The Fontainebleau is one of the top palaces of France belonging to royalty. It is situated in the south-eastern part of the French capital. It is surrounded by the natural assets of a lush forested area. The structure itself is made up of a number of striking elements.
The complex includes neat towers, delicate adjoining buildings. By the way, portions of the palace are often likened to elegant fudges. Construction began in the 12th century on the orders of King Louis VII, who wished to have a residence on such beautiful grounds.
Mont Saint-Michel Abbey
The town called Mont Saint-Michel was established as early as 709. It occupies an area on a remote island that surrounds the capricious sea. A fortress wall is present as protection. Every year at least hundreds of thousands of curious tourists visit the site.
The area is famous for its strongest tides. They occur virtually every 24 hours. The tide height can be as high as 14 metres. There was once a small chapel and abbey on the island. In the 11th century, a Romanesque church and then a monastery appeared. In the 12th century, a tower was built. That’s how the island complex was born.
If Castle
When visiting Marseille, one should not miss the Château d’If. It is 3.5 km from the Old Port. The castle occupies a miniature island surrounded by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The area is famous for its many intriguing legends and was often the location for the stories of Alexandre Dumas.
The castle’s buildings are impressive in their sheer massiveness. For some, their appearance is frightening; for others, the spirit of anxiety is a source of inspiration. There are plaques within the castle which state that the Count of Monte Cristo, the Iron Mask and other literary characters were its prisoners.
Notre Dame de Paris
Notre Dame de Paris is a calling card of the French capital and the entire country. The Catholic church has witnessed many crucial historical events, many times serving as the main location. Gothic elements are cleverly interwoven with Romanesque details.
Construction started in 1163. But they took about 200 years. The construction of the cathedral was completed as early as 1345. The construction is located on the territory called “Zero kilometre”. It is said to be the starting point for all distances in France.
