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• The Ardennes
• The Massif Central
• The Massif Armoricain
• The Paris Basin
• The Flanders Plain
• The Alsace Plain
• The Loire plains
• The Aquitaine Basin
• Pyrenees, Jura, and Alps
• The southern plains
• The Seine system
• The Loire system
• The Garonne system
• The Rhône system
• The Rhine system
• The smaller rivers and the lakes
• The oceanic region
• The continental region
• The Mediterranean region
• Animal life
• Ethnic groups
• Mediterranean
• Postwar transformation
• Urban settlement
• Population history
• Immigration
• Population structure
• Population distribution
• Fruits and wine making
• Dairying and livestock
• Agribusiness
• Industrial trends
• Branches of manufacturing
• Banking and insurance
• The stock exchange
• Foreign investment
• Civil service
• Labour and taxation
• Air transport
• Telecommunications
• The genesis of the 1958 constitution
• The dual executive system
• The role of the president
• Parliamentary composition and functions
• The role of referenda
• The role of the Constitutional Council
• The régions
• The départements
• The communes
• The overseas territories
• The judiciary
• Administrative courts
• Political process
• Armed forces
• Police services
• Social security and health
• Wages and the cost of living
• Primary and secondary education
• Higher education
• Other features
• Cultural milieu
• Daily life and social customs
• Painting and sculpture
• Architecture
• Photography
• Administrative bodies
• Museums and monuments
• Sports and recreation
• Television and radio
• Geographic-historical scope
• Gaul under the high empire ( c. 50 bce – c. 250 ce )
• Gaul under the late Roman Empire ( c. 250– c. 400)
• The end of Roman Gaul ( c. 400– c. 500)
• Early Frankish period
• Gaul and Germany at the end of the 5th century
• Frankish expansion
• The conversion of Clovis
• The conquest of Burgundy
• The conquest of southern Germany
• The shrinking of the frontiers and peripheral areas
• The parceling of the kingdom
• Chlotar II and Dagobert I
• The hegemony of Neustria
• Austrasian hegemony and the rise of the Pippinids
• Charles Martel
• The conquests
• The restoration of the empire
• The Treaty of Verdun
• The kingdoms created at Verdun
• Germans and Gallo-Romans
• Social classes
• Diffusion of political power
• The central government
• Local institutions
• The development of institutions in the Carolingian age
• Frankish fiscal law
• Institutions
• Monasticism
• Religious discipline and piety
• The influence of the church on society and legislation
• Merovingian literature and arts
• Carolingian literature and arts
• French society in the early Middle Ages
• Principalities north of the Loire
• The principalities of the south
• The monarchy
• Economic expansion
• Urban prosperity
• Rural society
• The age of cathedrals and Scholasticism
• Culture and learning
• Philip Augustus
• Later Capetians
• Foreign relations
• John the Good
• Charles VII
• Governmental reforms
• Military reforms
• Regrowth of the French monarchy
• Economic distress
• Culture and art
• Military and financial organization
• The growth of a professional bureaucracy
• The age of the Reformation
• The Wars of Religion
• Political ideology
• The development of central government
• Louis’s religious policy
• Absolutism of Louis
• Foreign affairs
• French culture in the 17th century
• The social order of the ancien régime
• Monarchy and church
• Commitment to modernization
• Agricultural patterns
• Industrial production
• The Enlightenment
• The influence of Montesquieu and Rousseau
• The historical debate
• Foreign policy and financial crisis
• Domestic policy and reform efforts
• King and parlements
• The causes of the French Revolution
• The juridical revolution
• Parisian revolt
• Peasant insurgencies
• The abolition of feudalism
• Restructuring France
• Sale of national lands
• Religious tensions
• Political tensions
• The second revolution
• A republic in crisis
• Girondins and Montagnards
• The Reign of Terror
• The Jacobin dictatorship
• The Army of the Republic
• The Thermidorian Reaction
• Sister republics
• Alienation and coups
• The Consulate
• Loss of political freedom
• Religious policy
• Napoleonic nobility
• The civil code
• Campaigns and conquests, 1797–1807
• The Grand Empire
• The Continental System
• Conscription
• Napoleon and the Revolution
• Louis XVIII, 1815–24
• Charles X, 1824–30
• The revolution of 1830
• The July Monarchy
• The revolution of 1848
• The Second Republic, 1848–52
• The authoritarian years
• The liberal years
• The Franco-German War
• The Commune of Paris
• Attempts at a restoration
• The constitution of the Third Republic
• Republican factions
• Opportunist control
• The Dreyfus Affair
• Foreign policy
• The prewar years
• World War I
• German reparations
• Financial crisis
• Collective security
• Internal conflict on the left
• The Great Depression and political crises
• German aggressions
• Cultural and scientific attainments
• The Vichy government
• The Resistance
• Constitution of the Fourth Republic
• Political and social changes
• Colonial independence movements
• The Fifth Republic
• France after de Gaulle
• Mitterrand’s first term
• Mitterrand’s second term
• The Chirac administration
• The Sarkozy administration
• The 2012 presidential campaign
• The Hollande administration
• Society since 1940
• The cultural scene
• Major rulers of France

• Who was René Descartes?
• What is René Descartes known for?
• What was René Descartes’s family like?
• How did René Descartes die?
• Who was Voltaire?

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• Social Science LibreTexts - France and Cardinal Richelieu
• Central Intelligence Agency - The World Factbook - France
• Jewish Virtual Library - France Virtual Jewish History Tour
• France - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11)
• France - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up)
• Table Of Contents

News •

France , country of northwestern Europe . Historically and culturally among the most important nations in the Western world, France has also played a highly significant role in international affairs, with former colonies in every corner of the globe. Bounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea , the Alps and the Pyrenees , France has long provided a geographic, economic, and linguistic bridge joining northern and southern Europe. It is Europe’s most important agricultural producer and one of the world’s leading industrial powers.

France is among the globe’s oldest nations, the product of an alliance of duchies and principalities under a single ruler in the Middle Ages . Today, as in that era, central authority is vested in the state, even though a measure of autonomy has been granted to the country’s régions in recent decades. The French people look to the state as the primary guardian of liberty, and the state in turn provides a generous program of amenities for its citizens, from free education to health care and pension plans. Even so, this centralist tendency is often at odds with another long-standing theme of the French nation: the insistence on the supremacy of the individual. On this matter historian Jules Michelet remarked, “ England is an empire, Germany is a nation, a race, France is a person.” Statesman Charles de Gaulle , too, famously complained, “Only peril can bring the French together. One can’t impose unity out of the blue on a country that has 265 kinds of cheese.”

This tendency toward individualism joins with a pluralist outlook and a great interest in the larger world. Even though its imperialist stage was driven by the impulse to civilize that world according to French standards ( la mission civilisatrice ), the French still note approvingly the words of writer Gustave Flaubert :

I am no more modern than I am ancient, no more French than Chinese; and the idea of la patrie , the fatherland—that is, the obligation to live on a bit of earth coloured red or blue on a map, and to detest the other bits coloured green or black—has always seemed to me narrow, restricted, and ferociously stupid.

At once universal and particular, French culture has spread far and greatly influenced the development of art and science, particularly anthropology, philosophy, and sociology .

France has also been influential in government and civil affairs, giving the world important democratic ideals in the age of the Enlightenment and the French Revolution and inspiring the growth of reformist and even revolutionary movements for generations. The present Fifth Republic has, however, enjoyed notable stability since its promulgation on September 28, 1958, marked by a tremendous growth in private initiative and the rise of centrist politics. Although France has engaged in long-running disputes with other European powers (and, from time to time, with the United States , its longtime ally), it emerged as a leading member in the European Union (EU) and its predecessors. From 1966 to 1995 France did not participate in the integrated military structure of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) , retaining full control over its own air, ground, and naval forces; beginning in 1995, however, France was represented on the NATO Military Committee, and in 2009 French President Nicolas Sarkozy announced that the country would rejoin the organization’s military command. As one of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council —together with the United States, Russia , the United Kingdom , and China —France has the right to veto decisions put to the council.

The capital and by far the most important city of France is Paris , one of the world’s preeminent cultural and commercial centres. A majestic city known as the ville lumière , or “city of light,” Paris has often been remade, most famously in the mid-19th century under the command of Georges-Eugène, Baron Haussman , who was committed to Napoleon III ’s vision of a modern city free of the choleric swamps and congested alleys of old, with broad avenues and a regular plan. Paris is now a sprawling metropolis, one of Europe’s largest conurbations, but its historic heart can still be traversed in an evening’s walk. Confident that their city stood at the very centre of the world, Parisians were once given to referring to their country as having two parts, Paris and le désert , the wasteland beyond it. Metropolitan Paris has now extended far beyond its ancient suburbs into the countryside, however, and nearly every French town and village now numbers a retiree or two driven from the city by the high cost of living , so that, in a sense, Paris has come to embrace the desert and the desert Paris.

Among France’s other major cities are Lyon , located along an ancient Rhône valley trade route linking the North Sea and the Mediterranean; Marseille , a multiethnic port on the Mediterranean founded as an entrepôt for Greek and Carthaginian traders in the 6th century bce ; Nantes , an industrial centre and deepwater harbour along the Atlantic coast; and Bordeaux , located in southwestern France along the Garonne River .

France, the largest country in Western Europe, has long been a gateway between the continent's northern and southern regions.

France, the largest country in Western Europe, has long been a gateway between the continent's northern and southern regions. Its lengthy borders touch Germany and Belgium in the north; the Atlantic Ocean in the west; the Pyrenees Mountains and Spain in the south.

Wide fertile plains dominate most of the north and west, making France the agricultural epicenter of Europe. The sprawling, forested plateau of the Massif Central, a range of ancient mountains and extinct volcanoes, occupies France's southern interior.

Map created by National Geographic Maps

PEOPLE & CULTURE

France is one of the oldest nations on Earth and the most ethnically diverse country in Europe. These deep and broad influences have made France a world leader throughout history in nearly all aspects of culture, including cuisine, wine-making, politics, philosophy, music, art, film, fashion, literature, and sports.

France has ample land area to provide habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals. More than 25 percent of its territory is covered with forest, and another 50 percent is countryside or farmland.

Lowland forests are home to deer and wild boar, while the woodlands of the Alps and Pyrenees provide refuge for rare chamois antelope, ibex, brown bears , and alpine hares, among many other species. The Mediterranean coastline is a stopover of millions of migrating African birds , including flamingos , vultures , egrets, and bee-eaters.

The French government has made a broad commitment to preserving open spaces and the wildlife they contain. About 10 percent of the country has been set aside as national or regional parklands and nature reserves.

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France facts

Learn about one of europe’s most amazing countries.

Ooh la la ! Ready for the lowdown on one of Europe’s most amazing countries? Then check out our fascinating facts about France …

Facts about France

Official Name : French Republic Form of government : Republic Capital : Paris Population : 67, 092, 056 Official languages : French Monetary unit : Euro Area : 543,965 square kilometres Major mountain ranges : Alps, Pyrenees, Massif Central Major rivers : Seine, Rhine and Rhône

French flag

Map of france, france: geography and landscape.

The largest country in Western Europe, France has long been a gateway between the continent’s northern and southern regions. Its lengthy borders touch Germany and Belgium in the north, the Atlantic Ocean in the west, and the Pyrenees mountains and Spain in the south. It also borders the Mediterranean sea in the southeast, and the Alps , Switzerland and Italy in the east.

France has a very diverse landscape. There are beautiful beaches on the southeast coast, home to the French Riviera , and towering mountains in the south and east, where the snow-capped French Alps rise to the sky. Europe’s tallest peak, Monte Blanc , is found in the French Alps, standing at a massive 4,810m tall!

Wide, fertile plains dominate most of the north and west, making France the agricultural epicentre of Europe. The sprawling, forested plateau of the Massif Central – a range of ancient mountains and extinct volcanoes – occupies France”s southern interior.

France’s nature and wildlife

France has lots of land area to provide habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals. More than 25 percent of its territory is covered with forest, and another 50 percent is countryside or farmland.

Lowland forests are home to deer and wild boar, while the woodlands of the Alps and Pyrenees provide refuge for rare chamois antelope, ibex, brown bears and alpine hares, among many other species. The Mediterranean coastline is a stopover for millions of migrating African birds, too, including flamingos, vultures, egrets and bee-eaters.

The French government has made a broad commitment to preserving open spaces and the wildlife they contain. In fact, about ten percent of the country has been set aside as national or regional parklands and nature reserves.

The history of France

There is evidence that early relatives of humans first settled in France nearly two million years ago. By 300,000 B.C., Neanderthals arose there, and by 40,000 B.C., Cro-Magnons had arrived.

Over time, Celtic tribes from central Europe moved into the region, and when the Romans occupied the territory in the second century B.C., they named it Gaul . Julius Caesar established full Roman control over Gaul in 51 B.C., but by 400 A.D. Rome was in decline. Gaul was attacked by neighbouring tribes, including Visigoths, Vandals and the Germanic Franks, from which France would eventually get its name. In 843 a treaty created the territory of West Francia , which would later become France.

Over the next thousand years, West Francia was ruled by a series of powerful kings. Several wars were fought over who would rule France, including the Hundred Years War , from 1337 to 1453. In 1789, a violent period of change called the French Revolution began, eventually ending in the overthrow of the monarchy.

Napoleon Bonaparte , a general during the French Revolution , declared himself leader of France in 1799. He began a campaign of wars with neighbouring countries, and built a large French empire that ruled over much of continental Europe. But France’s domination in Europe came to an end in 1815, when Napoleon was defeated at the Battle of Waterloo .

France later suffered great losses in both World War I and World War II . It has since emerged, though, as an important and prosperous world power.

France: people and culture

France is one of the oldest nations on Earth and the most ethnically diverse country in Europe. These deep and broad influences have made France a world leader throughout history in different aspects of culture, including cuisine, philosophy, music, art, film, fashion, literature and sport.

France: government and economy

Over the years, France has been through many political crises. Its current government is a combination of presidential and parliamentary systems. The president is elected by the people and is head of state. A prime minister, chosen by the president, works with the elected parliament to pass laws.

France is among the world’s largest economies. The country produces many items that other countries buy, including its most famous products – wine and cheese. Other exports include automobiles, electronics and clothing. Tourism is also a huge industry in France. More than 80 million people visit the country every year, more than any other country on Earth!

What did you make of our facts about France? Let us know by leaving a comment, below!

Credits map of france: national geographic maps. eiffel tower on a sunny day, paris: silvian tomescu, dreamstime. beach at the french rivieria: lucian milasan, dreamstime. arc de triomphe viewed from the champs-élysées, paris: giancarlo liguori, dreamstime. colourful flowers in the tuileries garden, paris: victorua, dreamstime. glass pyramid entrance to the louvre, paris: lsantilli, dreamstime. french alps and palace of versailles: getty images uk, leave a comment.

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Wow I never new geography was so fun

I would have liked more info on the weather, but over all, a very good job!

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theres alot of fact about france

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We should take action soon!!!

AMAZİNG! LOVE FROM TURKEY

Thanks for such good knowledge. Keep working hard .

these are amazing facts I got to learn so much.

I love Paris

Amazing Information

love the information

i love you guys and love franse too

So helpful for my project

I have to go there!!! { ; to amazing!

This helped me soooo much in my report!

So interesting

Im visiting France and these facts are cool!

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• About France
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• French Educational System
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Introduction to the Country of France

France is one of Europe’s largest countries. It is bordered by six countries other nations: Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg to the northeast, Switzerland and Italy to the southeast and Spain to the southwest. The United Kingdom borders France via the English Channel. The country is considered to be the gateway to Europe as there are several large international airports (two of these can be found in Paris), ferry terminals and the French rail service.

France is the most popular tourist destination in the world. There are many reasons why so many people enjoy visiting the diverse country, including the natural beauty, the amazing climate, outdoor recreational activities such as golf courses, art museums and galleries and so much more. There are many different activities that outline the history of the country which are enjoyable to visitors, especially considering its turbulent past.

Along with these things, France is enjoyed and well-known for its cuisine and wines. It is easy to say that French people love to cook and love their food. Meals in France are joyous, long events with families drawn close together for conversation. The typical French meal offers three to four courses which includes cheese before dessert. All meals are accompanied by freshly baked breads and wine. Popular foods in France include chicken in a red wine sauce, known as Coq au vin and sea scallops cooked in butter, or Coquilles Saint-Jacques. The food that is actually on the menu can also be quite diverse and vary according to the region of the country in which you are located.

People in France are courteous and very formal. People in the country are also known for being chic, taking great pride in their personal appearance and clothing. Some countries view France as an arrogant country because of these characteristics, although those in the country attribute this to simply being fashionable and cautious of the appearance.

There are 22 official regions located in the country of France. Each of these regions are subdivided into departments.

Brittany and Normandy lie on the far northwest corner of France. This region is distinct, with a jagged coastline of wide bays and granite cliffs. Those who reside in this region consider themselves separated from the rest of France. The dialect is Breton, and you will find Lower Normandy and Upper Normandy also within this region. The countryside in this region is simply amazing, and those visiting will find mile after mile of unspoilt countryside. Rain is common in this region, with cooler weather in the winter months and a variable climate throughout the year.

To the southern border of Brittany and Lower Normandy you will find Pays-de la Loire. This region is spectacular and lush with amazing scenery, including the dramatic Atlantic coast where delightful beaches and waters can be found. The climate in this region offers the best of temperatures, with warm summers and mild winters.

The southern region of France is a popular area. It is extremely busy and one of the most expensive regions in the country. It is also hot. Despite these things visitors come from far and wide to enjoy the scenery that is offered in the region. Lavender fields are popular throughout the southern region.

The Rhone-Alpes, sits to the north of the Mediterranean coast. It is home to the French Alps which everyone knows is a popular area for tourists as well as locals. The area is filled with dazzling resorts available throughout the year and those in the region can take advantage of any number of activities with skiing ranking as a particular favourite. Mountains are plentiful in the region, just as they are in The Pyrenees in the southwest.

The centre of France is truly where the heart lies. It is a peaceful, quite region. Auvergne is located in the heart of France, and still remains one of the least densely populated areas of the country. There are no coasts or national borders found in the areas in the heart of France. Limousin, Burgundy, the Central Loire Valley all are located here. Many lakes exist throughout these areas, making it a prime area for those who enjoy fishing. Those who like to sip a great glass of wine can also come to this region. Burgundy is a paradise for those who love wine as well as delectable food.

In the eastern region of France you will find the areas that border Germany, Switzerland, Belgium and Luxembourg. The Franche-Comte is here, characterized by an amazing landscape of woods and rivers. Those who enjoy the great outdoors are certain to enjoy this region. There is a strong German influence in this region, which is prominent in the dialect, the cuisine and the architecture. It is a region that is peaceful and filled with beautiful small towns, rolling vineyards and more. Ardennes is in the region, and a hilly area with forests and waters to the south. It is here that champagne is created. In this region the temperatures are generally cooler in the winter. The locals are affluent, as this is the main gateway into Europe.

Northern France is home to Nord-Pas-de-Calais, Dunkerque and Boulogne. The close proximity to Belgium has a heavy influence on the region. Here you will find windmills and canals covering large expanses of land. The local cuisine is an attractive part of the region, just as the world-renowned beer festivals that take place. The region is also rich in history. The First World War battlefields can be found in the area, which reveal a look at the horrors of times past. Picardy is also located in this part of France. The climate within this region resembles that of the UK and Paris.

And then there is Paris. You cannot talk about France without first talking about Paris, the capital of the country. Paris has it all, and it is one of the most majestic capital cities in the entire world. The Eiffel Tower is located in Paris, as well as The Louvre. Paris exemplifies wealth and design, therefore the region is very expensive. There are endless cultural attractions found in Paris.

As you can see there is something to love throughout the country of France. It is truly the place to be no matter who you are. Men and women, teens and children of all ages enjoy coming to France and experiencing things that can be found nowhere else in the world. Whether you are looking for mountains, lakes, history, sandy beaches or something else, France certainly has something to offer to everyone.

A few other bits of information about France that you might enjoy:

• 85% of all residents of the country are Roman Catholic
• More than 60 million people reside in the country
• French and English are the two most commonly spoken languages in the country
• France uses EUROs. You will need to exchange any money that you choose to bring with you from another country into EUROs before or after you arrive in the country.

While France was once a largely agricultural state, things have changed since World War II and now there are many different industries that France is competent in. Around 35% of all of the land in France is occupied by orchards and vineyards. France leads the way in wine production as well. Forestry and fishing also rank highly as notable industries in the country, although this varies according to the location of France that you are in.  Other notable interests in the country include iron and coal, as well as transportation of equipment and machinery. As you may imagine, tourism accounts for a very large proportion of the economy in France.

France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, bringing tens-of-millions of visitors each and every year. While most people come to experience the fabulousness of Paris, there are many other cities in the country that also offer a delight to those who visit. Arriving in Paris provides the chance to experience so very much. It is said that Paris is the city of love, and you can expect romance and love to always be in the air when you are in Paris. France is the most visited country in the world each year and those who choose to visit the country will certainly leave and head back home with a fond appreciation of the nation.

Another important fact about France is that it is high on the list of best places in the world to attend university. Individuals of all ages can attend any of the fabulous colleges and universities in the country and expect to earn a great education. France is home to some of the best universities in the world, and the country leads the way in a number of industries. When it is a wonderful education that is desired, it is France that more people look to. There are so many reasons why people choose France, with the outstanding educational opportunities being the biggest. But, a cheaper cost of living, the area and other factors also influence the decision of people to attend a university in France.

France is rich in history and culture. You can find people from all backgrounds and heritages in the country. The food in France is another benefit of being in the country. People in France are exquisite in every aspect of their life. This includes in the dishes that they prepare. When you taste authentic French cuisine you can experience something that will set your taste buds alight and help you discover flavours that you never knew existed. Paris is well-known for their upscale restaurants serving some of the finest food you will ever taste.

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Embarking on a cultural odyssey: unveiling the charms of France culture

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Paris Burgundy Côte d'Azur - French Riviera Cultural Heritage Shopping and French Savoir Faire Food and Wine

Reading time: 0 min Published on 3 August 2023

As a hub of sorts including fashion, cuisine, art and architecture, Paris is what many people think of when it comes to French culture. Yet that is a rookie mistake… because life outside of the City of Lights is very different and varies by region. Prepare to set sail on a wondrous journey through the enchanting realm of France culture, where each step uncovers a dazzling tapestry of customs and traditions that have shaped this exquisite nation. From the iconic streets of Paris to the quaint countryside, every corner of La Belle France beckons with its own unique allure, inviting you to immerse yourself in its rich heritage.

Language in France: a melodic blend of voices

As you step foot on the cobblestone streets, the symphony of France culture begins, and at its heart lies the melodious French language. The language of love and romance, it flows like a gentle river through the conversations of over 70 million residents, weaving a harmonious medley of words that bind the nation together.

But listen closely, and you'll hear a delightful fusion of dialects and languages from every corner of the world. German, Flemish, Arabic, Italian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Creole, and Breton add vibrant hues to the cultural canvas, celebrating the nation's diversity and openness to the world.

Nevertheless, when you go, it pays to know some basic French phrases as locals often appreciate the efforts put in by visitors who try to speak their language. Just don’t confuse faire la tête (to sulk) with faire la fête (to party)!

French Cuisine: a gastronomic ballet

France is a foodie capital for a reason.

Prepare to be enchanted by the culinary ballet that unfolds in France, for this is the land where food becomes art, and dining is a celebration of life. France culture embraces gastronomy with a passion, elevating every meal to a symphony of flavors and textures that dance upon the taste buds.

French cuisine speaks of expression and passion; and much socialising is done around lengthy meals and is completelly part of the French culture and traditions.

From the sumptuous boeuf bourguignon , where tender beef melds with velvety wine sauce, to the savory coq au vin, where chicken and red wine unite in a harmonious duet, each dish is a masterpiece of culinary creativity. Savor the richness of ratatouille , a sun-kissed melody of vegetables that transports you to the idyllic gardens of Provence.

Over the years, cooking styles have evolved from the heavier, saucier and more complicated dishes to what is now a reflection of a modern yet still highly sophisticated society.

French food and cooking are generally considered the backbone of many cuisines across the Western world. A beloved tradition, the French Gastronomic meal is classified as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Let’s go back in time and see its diverse journey…

Fashion in France: A Haute Couture Symphony

Behold the elegance that graces the boulevards of Paris, where the world of fashion becomes a symphony of style. France culture boasts a legacy of haute couture, with Paris reigning as the unrivaled fashion capital of the globe. Locals exude sophistication effortlessly, their outfits a work of art that combines classic elegance with contemporary chic.

The streets become a catwalk, where demure flowy dresses, well-cut suits, and stylish long coats waltz in harmony with scarves and berets. Embrace the enchanting magique of French style, and let your own fashion sense dance to the rhythm of Parisian glamour.

As a fashion capital , Paris __ is home to numerous high-end fashion houses including Chanel, Christian Dior, Hermes and Louis Vuitton .

You will notice that many locals have a distinct sophisticated style, which seems effortlessly thrown together. That’s the French magique! Typical outfits include demure flowy dresses, well-cut suits, long coats, scarves and berets.

Art and Architecture and culture in France

As you venture through the heart of France culture, prepare to be awestruck by the timeless beauty of art and architecture that adorn the cities and towns. Paris, a living art gallery, showcases a breathtaking array of cultural and architectural styles, each reflecting a different chapter in the nation's history. Marvel at the soaring Gothic cathedrals that touch the heavens, their majestic spires reaching for the divine. Embrace the graceful facades of Renaissance palaces, where opulence and refinement unite in a harmonious symphony. Each building tells a story, a testimony to the artistic brilliance that has shaped the nation.

The French LOVE their art . And we love that about the French! Art is everywhere and you simply cannot escape from it, particularly in Paris and other major cities. As you explore the cities and towns, you will no doubt appreciate the many different cultural and architectural styles that decorate the cities’ interior and skylines.

Gothic, Renaissance, Romanesque Rococo and Neoclassic influences can be seen in many churches and public buildings, mixed in with somef modern architecture.

As for some of history's most renowned artists such as Claude Monet, Edgar Degas and Camille Pissarro , Paris was a major source of their inspiration, which gave rise to the Impressionism movement in the 19th century. When you visit, you must make it a point to visit the Louvre Museum in Paris. It is among the world's largest museums and is home to many famous works of art, including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.

Cinema is also a big part of the French Culture .

Cinema: A Love Letter to Life

France culture holds cinema in its heart, for it is through this magical art form that stories come alive and emotions find their voice. As you step into the world of French cinema, you'll be swept away by a love letter to life, where every frame is a canvas that paints the complexities of human emotions. Dive into the depths of French cinema, where drama and comedy intertwine, leaving audiences captivated by the magic of storytelling.

In the realm of French culture, cinema is an art form that holds a special place in the hearts of the French people. It is more than just entertainment; it is a powerful medium that offers a window to the soul of the nation. The French film industry has a rich and storied history, dating back to the birth of cinema itself. From the pioneering works of the Lumière brothers in the late 19th century to the avant-garde movements of the 20th century, French cinema has been a trailblazer in shaping the language of cinema worldwide.

Every year, the Alliance Française organizes the highly anticipated French Film Festival, a celebration of the finest cinematic treasures that France has to offer. With a carefully curated lineup of films spanning a diverse range of genres, from thought-provoking dramas to heartwarming comedies, the festival provides a captivating showcase of the art of storytelling. These films transport audiences to the heart of French culture, offering a glimpse into the intricacies of human emotions and experiences that resonate across borders and cultures.

At the French Film Festival, viewers are invited to embark on an exquisite journey through the lives of characters who grapple with love, loss, joy, and hope. The films delve into the complexities of human relationships, reflecting the nuances of French society and the human condition. The artful cinematography, evocative soundtracks, and compelling performances by some of France's most talented actors create an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression on the audience.

French cinema is not confined to the glitz and glamour of mainstream productions; it also embraces the world of independent and art-house films. These often push the boundaries of storytelling, exploring themes that are thought-provoking and unconventional. The French filmmakers' unyielding commitment to artistic expression has earned them accolades and recognition at prestigious international film festivals, solidifying France's place as a powerhouse in the global film industry.

For cinephiles and enthusiasts alike, the French Film Festival is a cineaste's dream come true. It provides an opportunity to discover the works of emerging filmmakers and rediscover the masterpieces of legendary directors. Audiences can witness the evolution of French cinema over the decades, observing how it has mirrored and shaped society's changing values and aspirations.

Tip: Grab a Paris Pass to get access to over 50 of Paris’ cultural and art attractions.

For more travel inspiration and information on France Rail Passes and tickets, head to www.raileurope.com.au , where you can use the destination guide and interactive map to help with the trip planning.

By France.fr

The magazine of the destination unravels an unexpected France that revisits tradition and cultivates creativity. A France far beyond what you can imagine…

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• Humanities ›
• Geography ›
• Country Information ›

Geography of France

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• Country Information
• Physical Geography
• Political Geography
• Key Figures & Milestones
• Urban Geography
• M.A., Geography, California State University - East Bay
• B.A., English and Geography, California State University - Sacramento

France, officially called the Republic of France, is a country located in Western Europe. The country also has several overseas territories and islands around the world, but the mainland of France is called Metropolitan France. It stretches north to south from the North Sea and the English Channel to the Mediterranean Sea and from the Rhine River to the Atlantic Ocean . France is known for being a world power and has been an economic and cultural center of Europe for hundreds of years.

Fast Facts: France

• Official Name : French Republic
• Capital : Paris
• Population : 67,364,357 (2018) Note: This figure is for metropolitan France and five overseas regions; the metropolitan France population is 62,814,233
• Official Language : French
• Currency : Euro (EUR)
• Form of Government : Semi-presidential republic
• Metropolitan France : Generally cool winters and mild summers, but mild winters and hot summers along the Mediterranean; occasional strong, cold, dry, north-to-northwesterly wind known as the mistral
• French Guiana : Tropical; hot, humid; little seasonal temperature variation
• Guadeloupe and Martinique : Subtropical tempered by trade winds; moderately high humidity; rainy season (June to October); vulnerable to devastating cyclones (hurricanes) every eight years on average
• Mayotte : Tropical; marine; hot, humid, rainy season during northeastern monsoon (November to May); dry season is cooler (May to November)
• Reunion : Tropical, but temperature moderates with elevation; cool and dry (May to November), hot and rainy (November to April)
• Total Area : 248,573 square miles (643,801 square kilometers)
• Highest Point : Mont Blanc at 15,781 feet (4,810 meters)
• Lowest Point : Rhone River delta at -6 feet (-2 meters)

History of France

France has a long history and, according to the U.S. Department of State, it was one of the earliest countries to develop an organized nation-state. As a result of the mid-1600s, France was one of the most powerful countries in Europe. By the 18th century, though, France began having financial problems due to the lavish spending of King Louis XIV and his successors. These and social problems eventually led to the  French Revolution  that lasted from 1789–1794. Following the revolution, France shifted its government between "absolute rule or constitutional monarchy four times" during the Empire of  Napoleon , the reigns of King Louis XVII and then Louis-Philippe and finally the Second Empire of Napoleon III.

In 1870 France was involved in the Franco-Prussian War, which established the country's Third Republic that lasted until 1940. France was hit hard during World War I and in 1920 it established the  Maginot Line  of border defenses to protect itself from the rising power of Germany. Despite these defenses, however,​ France was occupied by Germany early during  World War II . In 1940 it was divided into two sections—one that was directly controlled by Germany and another that was controlled by France (known as the Vichy Government). By 1942 though, all of France was occupied by the Axis Powers. In 1944, the Allied Powers liberated France.

Following WWII, a new constitution established France's Fourth Republic and a parliament was set up. On May 13, 1958,​ this government collapsed due to France's involvement in a war with Algeria. As a result,​ General Charles de Gaulle became the head of government to prevent civil war and the Fifth Republic was established. In 1965, France held an election and de Gaulle was elected as president, but in 1969 he resigned after several governmental proposals were rejected.

Since de Gaulle's resignation, France has had seven different leaders and its recent presidents have developed strong ties to the  European Union . The country was also one of the EU's six founding nations. In 2005, France underwent three weeks of civil unrest as its minority groups began a series of violent protests. In 2017, Emmanuel Macron was elected president.

Government of France

Today, France is considered a republic with executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. Its executive branch is made up of a chief of state (the president) and a head of government (the prime minister). France's legislative branch consists of a bicameral Parliament made up of the Senate and the National Assembly. The judicial branch of France's government is its Supreme Court of Appeals, the Constitutional Council, and the Council of State. France is divided into 27 regions for local administration.

Economics and Land Use in France

According to the CIA World Factbook, France has a large economy that is currently transitioning from one with government ownership to a more privatized one. The main industries in France are machinery, chemicals, automobiles, metallurgy, aircraft, electronics, textiles, and food processing. Tourism also represents a large part of its economy, as the country gets about 75 million foreign visitors each year. Agriculture is also practiced in some areas of France, and the main products of that industry are wheat, cereals, sugar beets, potatoes, wine grapes, beef, dairy products, and fish.

Geography and Climate of France

Metropolitan France is the part of France that is located in Western Europe to the southeast of the United Kingdom along the Mediterranean Sea, the Bay of Biscay, and the English Channel. The country also has several overseas territories: French Guiana in South Americ, the islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique in the Caribbean Sea, Mayotte in the Southern Indian Ocean, and Reunion in Southern Africa.

Metropolitan France has a varied topography that consists of flat plains and/or low rolling hills in the north and west, while the rest of the country is mountainous with the Pyrenees in the south and the Alps in the east. The highest point in France is Mont Blanc at 15,771 feet (4,807 m).

The climate of Metropolitan France varies by location, but most of the country has cool winters and mild summers, while the Mediterranean region has mild winters and hot summers. Paris, the capital and largest city of France, has an average January low temperature of 36 degrees (2.5 C) and an average July high of 77 degrees (25 C).

• Central Intelligence Agency. "CIA - The World Factbook - France."
• Infoplease.com. " France: History, Geography, Government, and Culture. "
• United States Department of State. " France. "
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