Twenty centuries of revolution, artistic genius, and daily toil have

forged Paris as we know it today. To experience the richness of this

much-loved city is to understand its history, its cultural heritage,

and the palpable energy that has come to define it. The specialist

authors of this exquisite volume, all Parisians by birth or

inclination, offer personal insights into all facets of their city : from

Paris's turbulent and bloody history and the gritty reality of

medieval life on its streets, to the magnificent architectural plans of

kings and emperors, daring urbanists, and modern architects. Paris

is a celebration of the capital's cultural riches-from sculpture and

painting to literature and cinema-and the ambiance and savoir

faire of this elegant city.

The wonderfully original illustrations throughout capture the

essence of Paris. From behind-the-scenes at the Louvre to smoky

jazz clubs, and from battles in barricaded streets to the sinuous

windings of the Seine, this book is the ultimate indulgence in the

insatiable love affair that is Paris.