Arrondissements of Paris
The Arrondissements of Paris are administrative districts within the city of Paris, France. Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, each with its own mayor, town hall, and distinct administrative structure. Here's an overview:
History
- Originally, Paris was divided into 12 districts in 1795 during the French Revolution.
- In 1859, under Napoleon III and Baron Haussmann's urban planning reforms, the number was increased to 20. This was part of a broader effort to modernize Paris, which included annexing surrounding towns and villages into the city.
- The arrondissements were numbered in a clockwise spiral pattern, starting from the center at the 1st arrondissement and expanding outward.
Structure and Function
- Each arrondissement is governed by a mayor elected by the residents of that district.
- The mayor's office, known as the Mairie, serves as the administrative center for local services including registry offices, social services, and local police stations.
- Arrondissements are further divided into quartiers, or neighborhoods, which are not administrative units but are culturally significant areas within each arrondissement.
- Each arrondissement has its own postal code, with the first two digits being 75 for Paris, followed by the arrondissement number.
Notable Features
Cultural Significance
- Each arrondissement has its own unique character, reflecting different aspects of Parisian life from cultural hubs to residential areas.
- The spiral numbering system also represents a journey through Paris's history, with older districts at the center and newer developments in the outer arrondissements.
Sources
Related Topics