Paris: Grant Allen's Historical Guides

"Paris" by Grant Allen is a historical guidebook written in the late 19th century. This work is part of Grant Allen's series on historical towns and aims to provide tourists, especially those with a deep desire for cultural enrichment, with historical and antiquarian insights rather than practical travel information. The book is focused on the city's rich architectural heritage and the significance of its monuments. The opening portion of "Paris" lays out the author’s intentions for the guide, explaining that it differs from traditional tourist guides by emphasizing the historical context and cultural significance of the city's landmarks. Allen aims to explore why Paris developed in its particular location and how its history shaped its artistic achievements, such as its churches and palaces. At the start, he reflects on the origins of Paris and introduces the Île de la Cité, the heart of historical Paris, detailing its transformation from a small Roman settlement into a significant medieval city. He discusses important figures like St. Denis and Ste. Geneviève, whose legacies are intertwined with the city's identity and religious architecture.