Paris Study Abroad 2014: 12th Arrondissement

The Bastille monument is very important to Parisians and their history. It resembles the storming of the Bastille prison that led to the commencement of the French Revolution. Although the prison no longer stands, the monument is dedicated to this important moment in history. This is why the French celebrate Bastille Day in France every 14^th of July that turns into quite the celebration.

As I walked through the twelfth district of Paris I was able to see the Bastille monument, which was located just next to the Bastille Opera House. The Opera house is a huge building where concerts are preformed and everyone comes to see. Right next to the Bastille Opera House is a small port in the Canal Saint Martin. I walked through this port and became aware that this was the Port de l’Arsenal. The beautiful port had many gardens and a cute little restaurant off the side named Grand Bleu. It was a very peaceful place filled with many Parisians enjoying the sun and going for walk. There were many boats parked in the port and people were appreciating the summer warmth.

This little area reminded me of the book, The Secret Garden, because of all the beautiful flowers and the green lush plants. It was a beautiful place next the canal and it also had a cute little park for kids. It was very well put together and I loved it.

Prominent Architecture: The Bastille Monument

The Bastille Opera House

Port de l'Arsenal: Tourist Attraction

Commercial business: Le Grand Bleu
This restaurant lays on the Port de l'Arsenal.

Le Promenade Plantée was another great place to go for a walk and value the French parks and nature scenes. This trail is accessible for bikes and anyone looking to get a break from the very populated city. A walk through Le Promenade Plantée can take up to an hour if one walks through the whole trail. It is a very pleasant place to take your dog for a walk as well as many of the French do.