Paris’s 1st arrondissement, also known as Louvre, is situated in the heart of the City of Light and is the least residential district in France’s capital. The foundations of the 1st arrondissement were first laid in 52 BC when the Romans conquered the ancient town of Lutetia which formerly lay on the same site. Located on the right bank of the River Seine, this arrondissement is one of Paris’s most central areas and is a great starting point for those who are unfamiliar with the city. Despite its small size, this district is home to many of the capital’s most iconic landmarks which include the Louvre Museum, the Tuileries Gardens and the Palais Royal. This area is also renowned for its selection of elegant cafés, restaurants and designer shops which attract visitors from all corners of the globe. The 1st arrondissement caters for all tastes - lovers can stroll along the romantic banks of the river Seine, and wandering souls can search for bargains in various budget-friendly markets such as Les Halles - France’s 2nd most popular shopping centre. If you wish to avoid the tourist hotspots, it can be pleasant to absorb the sites of this picturesque neighbourhood whilst meandering through the streets or picnicking in the Tuileries Gardens. Historical fact: Despite being called the ‘new’ bridge, Pont Neuf is the oldest standing bridge in France’s capital. This bridge was the first to be built without houses on it! (OR Romantic fact: The 1st arrondissement is home to the Pont des Arts, otherwise known as the ‘love-locks’ bridge. Since 2008, lovers have taken to attaching padlocks to this structure, but unfortunately they are currently being removed as the weight is becoming too much for the bridge to withstand!)
