PARIS – Love, Light and History, Part I

I honestly cannot remember a time I have not yearned to go Paris. Was it from the classic children’s book La Madeline? The allure of dozens of romantic movies set there? Either way, I got my wish last year when my husband and I took a month-long trip through northern France, starting in the ultra-romantic city of Paris.

Our hotel, Le 123 Sebastopal – Astotel was simply put…amazing. Located in the 2^nd District of Paris, it had a delightful cinema-inspired decor. The front door handle fashioned as a movie reel is the first clue as what theme awaits inside. A mock movie marque above the front desk leaves no doubt. For French film buffs (like me) theater, there are posters on one wall of popular French films; some even contain American actors. The hotel is cleverly constructed so each floor corresponds with a genre of the entertainment industry. Our room contained a musical instrument case for the base of our bathroom sink. Peeking into a room on another floor, we spied drums used for night tables. Now we’ll just have to go back to see the rest…

As for food…I was bedazzled by the sight of croissants (chocolate too!) crusty breads, rolls, cheeses, meats, yogurt, fruit, and toppings, all beautifully curated. Needless to say, breakfast soon became a cherished ritual.

Our first day, my husband and I visited one of most dramatic and grandiose sights…the Neo-classical Panthéon, replete with soaring columns, inside and out, is one of the best preserved buildings of ancient Rome. With a dome inspirited by St. Pauls’ Cathedral in London, this attraction is a “must-see”. Originally conceived of as a church in 1789, this magnificent museum is hidden gem of Paris. The Panthéon houses large vibrant painting, frescoes, mosaics, and life-size marble statues of of famous french philosophers and writers such as Voltaire, Joan of Arc, Victor Huge. Rousseau and others. Being a history lover, it was my favorite attraction. The crypt Rosseau was interned in, is particularly compelling and creative. Created from wood, it depicts a small house, with the “front doors slightly ajar. Emerging from the doors is an arm and hand holding wooden flowers. How whimsical and creative is that? As for Voltaire, his crypt is enhanced by a life-size statue of him adjacent to it. In all, Seventy-eight famous scientists, politicians, writers and military men are laid to rest here.

One of the most mesmerizing features of the Panthéon is the iconic pendulum suspended from the dome. As it moves ever so slowly, it demonstrates the rotation of the earth. If you stare at it long enough you can notice it gradually appears to change direction.

The Panthéon is must-see visit during your stay in Paris. Come prepared to stay a few hours as you soak up France’s glorious history.