There is something about the light in Paris that is so compelling, and it's further enhanced by the colour of the stone and the grey of the zinc roofs - and much more!
Agreed that Haussmann's buildings and boulevards are amazing. But the purpose of the wide boulevards was anti-revolutionary - the demolished old narrow mediaeval streets could easily be barricaded ('aux barricades!!') in times of civil unrest. The regime of Napoleon III was frightened of the revolutionary spirit in Paris arising again and this creation of wide boulevards was intended to prevent streets being barricaded, and to allow the army to easily quell unrest. But despite this, the boulevards are wonderful!
Bonjour Jonathan - yes i agrée thé original purpose of the boulevard design was not ideal in todays terms but we are lucky to be able to enjoy them today. They are magnificent!
Agreed that Haussmann's buildings and boulevards are amazing. But the purpose of the wide boulevards was anti-revolutionary - the demolished old narrow mediaeval streets could easily be barricaded ('aux barricades!!') in times of civil unrest. The regime of Napoleon III was frightened of the revolutionary spirit in Paris arising again and this creation of wide boulevards was intended to prevent streets being barricaded, and to allow the army to easily quell unrest. But despite this, the boulevards are wonderful!
Bonjour Jonathan - yes i agrée thé original purpose of the boulevard design was not ideal in todays terms but we are lucky to be able to enjoy them today. They are magnificent!
Thanks for sharing.
Judy