Paris, the City of Light, is known for its iconic landmarks, exquisite cuisine, and rich history. But beyond the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, the city holds many secrets. Here are ten fascinating facts about Paris that you probably didn’t know !

1. There’s Only One Stop Sign in Paris
Surprisingly, the entire city of Paris has only one official stop sign. Located in the 16th arrondissement, this rarity is a testament to the city’s reliance on roundabouts and the ‘priorité à droite’ (priority to the right) rule in traffic.

2. The Oldest Café Dates Back to 1686
Café Procope, founded in 1686, is considered the oldest café in Paris. It has hosted great thinkers like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Benjamin Franklin, making it a historic gathering spot for intellectuals.

3. There’s an Underground City of the Dead
Beneath Paris lies a network of tunnels known as the Catacombs, containing the remains of over six million people. Originally quarries, they were transformed into an underground ossuary in the 18th century.

4. Paris Has a Ghost Metro Station
Several metro stations in Paris have been abandoned or never opened to the public. One such station, “Haxo,” was built but never used for passenger service.

5. The Eiffel Tower Can Grow and Shrink
Due to thermal expansion, the Eiffel Tower changes height with the seasons. It can grow by up to 15 cm (6 inches) in the summer and shrink back in the winter.

6. Paris Wasn’t Always Called Paris
Before being named Paris, the city was known as Lutetia during Roman times. It was later renamed after the Parisii, the Gallic tribe that originally settled the area.

7. There’s a Vineyard in the Middle of Montmartre
Tucked away in Montmartre, the Clos Montmartre vineyard produces a limited quantity of wine each year. The harvest is celebrated annually during the Fête des Vendanges.

8. You Can Find a Replica of the Statue of Liberty
A smaller version of the Statue of Liberty, a gift from the United States, stands on Île aux Cygnes in the Seine River. It faces west, towards its famous counterpart in New York.

9. Paris Is Home to a Mysterious Underground Cinema
A hidden cinema was discovered in 2004 beneath the Palais de Chaillot. The space had been secretly equipped with a bar, restaurant, and movie screening area by an underground group.

10. There’s a Hidden Apartment in the Eiffel Tower
Gustave Eiffel built a private apartment at the top of the Eiffel Tower, where he entertained guests, including Thomas Edison. Today, visitors can catch a glimpse of this hidden gem.

Paris is full of surprises, blending history, mystery, and charm at every turn. Whether you’re a visitor or a longtime resident, the city never ceases to amaze!