Description
Book SynopsisNapoleon Bonaparte was one of the most influential rulers in European history. Renowned as a military commander, he was also a great statesman, administrator, lawmaker and builder - and his civic achievements outlived and arguably eclipsed his victories on the battlefield. Yet while there are a host of biographies and studies of his military and political career, few books have been written about his connections with Paris, the capital of his empire, where many remarkable buildings and monuments date from his time in power. That is why David Buttery's highly illustrated guidebook to Napoleon's Paris is such a timely and valuable addition to the literature designed for visitors to the city. Many of the most famous sites in the city were built or enhanced on Napoleon's instructions or are closely associated with him and with the period of the First French Empire - the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, the H tel des Invalides, Mus e de l'Arm e, Notre Dame Cathedral, P re-Lachaise Cemetery among them. David Buttery's guide covers them all in evocative detail. His work is essential reading for every visitor to Paris who is keen to gain an insight into the influence of Napoleon on the city and the tumultuous period in French history in which he was the dominant figure.
Trade ReviewButtery charts the building of the monuments, the restoration of the palaces, the paving of the streets, and all the intricate transformations that go into giving a city a global reputation. Butt he also looks at the ways Paris commemorated her patron, the statues scattered across the city, the museums dedicated to him and his soldiers, even the cemeteries where those warriors were laid to rest. Talking of fallen warriors, Buttery is especially good at showing how Paris was affected by those final battles of Napoleon’s regime in 1814 and 1815, and at showing how Napoleon’s capital has been changed by more recent events, be it war or the grand ambition of town planners. There is plenty of practical information in this magnificent book, so for those concerned about opening times and transport links, you can leave your Lonely Guide or Rough Planet behind. There are some lovely mapped walks here which are particularly nice and which allow the visitor to wander with intent. There are also some great asides on the imperial palaces and sites scattered just beyond the city limits. In short, it is really the only book the Napoleonic enthusiast needs when in the capital of France. - Jonathan North Finally, a guidebook for Napoleonic History enthusiasts! The book is divided into ten chapters, the first two provide a short history of Napoleon and his plans for the city of Paris. The next seven chapters talk about the different places and sites to see. In general, each chapter gives a short overview of about the site and then it gives practical information, such things as where it is located, what Metro stops ¬=are near it, where to park for the optimistic driver, opening hours, cost of tickets to get in, a map highlighting the things the author recommends, whether is food available, etc. One of the most important things he includes is a web address for the reader to find out current information on what exhibits are there, possible changes to the hours they are open, and the current ticket prices. This is a must have guide for those visiting Paris. I wish I had it when I was last there. – Robert Burnham, The Napoleon Series
