Though not many of the medieval themes are still present, certain aspects and architecture in Paris demonstrate the same principles, including cathedrals, palaces, and defensive walls that were constructed back in the 11th and 12th centuries.During the Central Middle Ages, the economy was booming. Governments were actually working with the help of nobles, bishops, and even kings, invasions weren't as common, and agricultural and commercial advances were all helping to strengthen countries and cities both. Small villages were still very common, but cities were becoming a big part of life in Europe, according to Judith Bennett, author of Medieval Europe: A Short History. By 1300, urban populations were growing, including in Paris, where the population was reaching 200,000 inhabitants (Bennett 133).
As cities get bigger, it makes sense that protection would be more necessary. The Wall of Philippe Auguste was built by the king of the same name between 1190 and 1220 and was the last wall that enclosed the city; it can be seen today near a playground that allows a glimpse of the level of the city at that time. Along with protection, Christianity was essential to the life of someone in the Middle Ages. The Notre Dame Cathedral was a construction process of almost 200 years, but the extraordinary structure is still a tourist attraction today. Another medieval piece of Paris is in the Conciergerie. This was where French kings gathered for the 10th through 14th centuries, though the only remaining part is a room known as the Hall of the Guards.
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| Notre Dame Cathedral |
Paris may not seem as medieval as some other cities, but there is a history directly tied to the Middle Ages there. With the design and structure of some buildings, the intended purpose of others, and the economic prosperity of the Central Middle Ages, Paris became a beautiful and prominent city.
Sources:
"5 Highlight of Medieval Paris." Paris Insiders Guide, www.parisinsidersguide.com/medieval-paris.html.
Bennett, Judith M. Medieval Europe: A Short History. 11th Ed., McGraw-Hill, 2011.
I never realized how many medieval influences are still around in Paris today, especially the walls built around the city. It's really interesting how cities like Paris grew so rapidly in the Central Middle Ages and the medieval architecture that came along with it.
ReplyDeleteI have a photo of that wall! The last time I was in Paris I set out to find it, and did. It's on the way to the lovely Marais area of Paris. I also toured the Concierge. This topic will come up when we look at medieval capital cities for France later.
ReplyDeleteI thought it was interesting how you described Paris during the Middle Ages and that aspects that are derived from the Middle Ages, such as architecture and religion, are still prominent today. I also liked how you applied information we studied in class regarding the expansion of cities and how this aspect also pertains to Paris' growth and development during the Middle Ages. Additionally, I had no idea that Paris had to have a wall as a mode of protection in safeguarding the city during this time period, and I was intrigued whenever you brought up the Wall of Philippe Auguste, since I have never heard of that landmark before. Overall, you included sufficient detail in your blog post and it was a great read.
ReplyDeleteThis post brings to mind the fire that just happened this year at Notre Dame. I had no prior knowledge of the cathedral, but this definitely put it into perspective for me. Also, the fact that medieval Paris had a population of 200,000 is mind-blowing.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy your pictures from up above this fantastic city. It really shows the architecture that was needed in creating this masterpiece. Again, I really enjoyed to see the problem of the more population was solved by the new wall that was built. Great Blog!!
ReplyDeleteParis is an amazing city now in the modern era but its beauty comes from its medieval roots. You did a very good job of giving us the background of the economy and infrastructure.
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