Paris: Secret Gardens, Hidden Places, and Stories of the City of Light

Mary McAuliffe's book "Paris: Secret Gardens, Hidden Places, and Stories in the City of Light" takes readers to secret and hidden places in Paris, including ancient aqueducts and a lost river, and explores the lives of people and their stories, from resistance fighters to artists. The book is not a chronology but an exploration of the many layers of the city throughout the ages.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Paris, a city of secrets and hidden wonders, has been meticulously explored by Mary McAuliffe in her captivating book. Through her multi-layered narrative, McAuliffe takes readers on a journey to secret and hidden places, even in the midst of the most well-known of Paris destinations. These hidden places, though small in size, hold immense revelations, akin to bas-reliefs found in forgotten corners of Notre-Dame or overlooked courtyards within ancient and bustling hospitals. McAuliffe takes us below the streets and sidewalks of Paris, revealing ancient aqueducts and a lost river that have been overlooked for centuries. She encourages readers to discover hidden treasures within the most visited museums, urging them to look beyond the surface and appreciate the city's rich history and culture.

At the heart of McAuliffe's exploration is her focus on the people and their stories. Characters such as evil queens, designing noblemen, bold chevaliers, and desperate lovers intermingle with resistance fighters and obsessed artists who have risen from abject poverty to achieve unexpected fame and fortune. This diverse cast of characters contributes to the vibrant tapestry of creativity that is the lifeblood of Paris. Each person, place, and story in the book leads to another, interconnected by a common thread woven within the rich tapestry of Paris's past. The story of Paris is not a linear chronology but rather an exploration of the city's many layers across centuries.

McAuliffe's writing style is engaging and evocative, transporting readers to the heart of Paris. Her descriptions are vivid, allowing readers to feel as if they are walking alongside her as she explores the city's hidden corners. The book is filled with historical anecdotes and cultural insights, providing a deeper understanding of the city's rich heritage. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a curious newcomer, Paris: Secret Gardens, Hidden Places, and Stories in the City of Light is a must-read for anyone who desires to discover the lesser-known aspects of this magnificent city.

Weight: 614g
Dimension: 163 x 236 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538173336