Montparnasse district in Paris: attractions

This area of Paris, whose name translates as "Mount Parnassus", at the beginning of the XX century was recognized as the center of the artistic life of the city. Today it is considered one of the most prestigious quarters and the main business center of the French capital.

Montparnasse in Paris, keeping the memory of the great masters who created here a century ago, enjoys an incredible popularity among tourists and provides an opportunity to stroll through historical places. Mecca of the capital's poets and artists is famous not only for its special atmosphere, but also for the various sights that have become the highlight of the country.

History bohemian area

The famous district is on the left bank of the Seine River. Once upon a time there was an earthen embankment, where students recited poems heated by wine. They called the hill "the hill of Parnassus", remembering the sacred mountain in Greece, where the music of singing and poetry lived. In the 20s of the XVIII century on this place were laid boulevards Raspail And Montparnasse, which intersect in the area of Piazza Picasso. In the XIX century, lovers of bohemian life moved from a decent center to the outskirts of the city, to entertain themselves in a cabaret and cheerfully burn life. The creative youth gathered here, but the famous artists who became regulars of inexpensive Montparnasse coffee shops brought true fame to this place. They paid with their works, and now the most famous museums of the world envy the art collections of cafes.

The area on the outskirts of the French capital was incorporated into the city in 1860, and now Montparnasse in Paris goes far beyond the administrative quarter. After the Second World War, he could not regain the glory of the bohemian corner and began to slowly turn into a business district. In the middle of the last century, the reconstruction of the historical site began, which continues to this day. It radically changed the face of the southern part of the city, but many corners remained untouched and continue to delight travelers.

Tour Montparnasse

So, what to visit first of all for tourists who found themselves in the former Mecca of the creative intelligentsia? The main attraction of the area is the 57-storey Montparnasse skyscraper in Paris, whose huge dimensions against the background of the historical center were constantly criticized. However, the tower is considered the most popular tourist attraction of the French capital.

Previously, this place was a small station, and as the city grew, he stopped coping with the increased volumes of traffic. On the territory of the complex of buildings dismantled by the decision of the authorities in 1972, a monolithic structure of metal and glass grew from the observation deck which offers a spectacular view of the picturesque city. The height of the Montparnasse tower in Paris, awkwardly towering above the historic district, is 210 meters. At the foot of the building that resembles an oval cigar, there is a huge shopping center, and on 57 floors there are business offices. It is curious that the skyscraper, which was repeatedly recognized as an ugly metropolitan building, goes far underground, and underground lines intersect under the quarter.

Observation deck

The upper point of the skyscraper - a helipad - is used for its intended purpose infrequently. But for the guests of the city it is of special interest. It is not very crowded, and every tourist without haste and vanity will enjoy from the heights of the views of the surroundings of the capital. With the help of high-speed elevators you can climb the last floors of the tower in just 40 seconds, and interactive tools, photos and maps will acquaint you with the history of the city. The 200-meter high Montparnasse in Paris allows you to admire the amazing panorama and view the city as if in the palm of your hand.

Gare Montparnasse

In 1969, the dismantling of the old station began, the buildings of which did not meet modern requirements, and the construction of a huge complex of structures made of glass panels began. The Montparnasse train station in Paris is one of the busiest places in the capital. Annually it takes up to 50 million people, changing from the train to the metro and not going out, which is very convenient for tourists. A new and beautiful building stands out against the background of houses located nearby. With a well-maintained train station linking Paris to the Atlantic coast, commuter trains leave for the city.

Jardin Atlantique

On the roof of Gare Montparnasse is an amazing living area, combining the best achievements of landscape art and engineering technology. Located at an altitude of 18 meters, the Jardin Atlantique is not completely visible from the bottom, but you can go upstairs on an elevator or stairs inside the building. Open 23 years ago, the Atlantic Garden is decorated in a marine style, and even the sidewalks resemble a ship's deck. A green oasis consisting of two parts will appeal not only to fans of meditation and relaxation, but also to those who prefer active rest. Guests should not be afraid that they will miss the train: all announcements in the garden are perfectly audible.

Cimetière du Montparnasse

In 1824, by decree of Napoleon, the Montparnasse Cemetery was founded in Paris. One of the most famous metropolitan necropolis covers an area of 19 hectares. Walking along the paths tourists on each plate of the monument or crypt will see well-known names. Unusual tombstones store many interesting stories about the life and death of those who found the last shelter under them. Guides will help you navigate the well-groomed cemetery and tell you a lot about the idols, on whose graves loyal fans leave notes, toys and flowers.

Comfortable and safe holidays

Tourists, who are planning to rest in the French capital, pre-book flights and hotels in Paris. Montparnasse is a relatively remote area from the center of the city, in which hotels are distinguished by their availability for every guest of the country. There are no luxury five-star establishments here, as in other districts, but no one will go home with displeased comfortable rooms with a comfortable bed, bathroom, air conditioning and TV. The hotels of the business district are located next to the tower, near the metro. And the average price of a room with excellent sound insulation fluctuates around 50-100 euros per day. The price includes buffet breakfast. As tourists note, living in this area is very convenient and safe.

Fabulously beautiful Paris is the city in which you want to return. Thanks to a special atmosphere, Montparnasse leaves an indelible mark on the soul, and its unique sights win the hearts of tourists from all over the world.