Paris, capital of France, is a major European city and a global center of art, fashion, gastronomy and culture. Its 19th century urban landscape is crossed by wide boulevards and the Seine. In addition to monuments such as the Eiffel Tower and the 12th century Gothic Notre Dame cathedral, the city is renowned for its cafés and luxury boutiques lining the rue du Fauburg Saint Honoré. PARIS is the first world capital to be visited.