The Marais is one of the oldest parts of Paris, following the Ile de
la Cite, which is now completely different. Much of the streets here
remain as they were centuries ago with their elegant mansions, small shops
and boutiques, and narrow alleys. This is a great place to live and
is significantly quieter than much of the rest of Paris. It was declared
a historical monument in 1962 and it began to be resurrected to its current
fashionable and cultural center again.
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Possibly one of the most beautifully ornate buildings in the city is the
Hotel
de Ville right near the Seine, which is the town hall. It is
a reconstruction of teh 17th century one that burned down in 1871.
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Along the Rue des Rosiers is the Jewish quarter of Paris and many
bakeries and kosher restaurants are here. The Jewish history and influence
cannot be missed.
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There are numerous, wonderful small museums here including the Musee
Picasso and Musee Carnavalet.
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The Place des Vosges is not to be missed. It is a square often
considered the most beautiful in the world. It is surrounded with
symetrical houses of brick and stone on all four sides. A party for
the marriage of Louis XIII and Anne d'Autriche was held here. Victor
Hugo lived here and Cardinal Richelieu even stayed here.
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Maison de Victor Hugo is available to visit with displays of reconstructions
of the rooms in which he lived.
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