Who Are the Parisians? Discover the Answer at the “Paris” Exhibition at City Hall

Discover the Heart of Paris: Immersive “Paris!” Exhibition at City Hall

The vibrant city of Paris, known for its iconic landmarks and rich history, unveils a deeper narrative about its inhabitants through the immersive “Paris!” exhibition at City Hall. Running from May 25 to November 15, 2024, this free exhibition offers a captivating glimpse into the lives and diversity of Parisians, coinciding with the global spotlight of the Olympic Games.

An Intimate Portrait of Paris

Ever wondered who the men and women of Paris truly are? The “Paris!” exhibition provides a fascinating answer. Did you know that one in four Parisians was born abroad? Or that the city boasts more cats than residents in the 15th arrondissement? Moreover, Louise and Gabriel have consistently been the top baby names for the past decade. These intriguing facts form just a part of the comprehensive narrative presented.

Immersive Experience

The exhibition, curated by Emmanuel Demarcy-Motta, is not just about facts. It’s an immersive journey through the daily lives and routines of Parisians. Visitors can experience a life-size school street, navigate the city’s main arteries by bike, or get lost in the greenery that Paris offers. Through a combination of numerical data, cartography, photos, videos, quizzes, and testimonials, the exhibition paints a multifaceted picture of Parisian life.

A City of Diversity and Resilience

Paris is portrayed as a city of diversity and resilience. One in two Parisians is under 40, and one in four engages in voluntary work. The exhibition also highlights the dynamic mobility within the city, with 8 million journeys made daily, predominantly on foot, by bicycle, or public transport.

Through giant portraits by Marguerite Bornhauser, the exhibition celebrates the individuals that make up this vibrant metropolis. It also reflects on significant challenges faced by the city and its inhabitants, including the climate emergency, migration crises, the Notre-Dame fire, and the global pandemic.

Building the City of Tomorrow

As Emmanuel Demarcy-Motta eloquently puts it, Paris is “a city of the present and the future, where we can break free from our habits to meet the challenges of the 21st century and build, in thought and deed, the city of tomorrow.” This exhibition not only showcases the current state of Paris but also inspires visitors to envision the future.

Key Figure: 2,133,111

In 2024, Paris is home to 2,133,111 residents. This figure serves as a reminder of the city’s vast and diverse population, each individual contributing to the unique tapestry of Parisian life.

The “Paris!” exhibition at City Hall offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore and understand the essence of being a Parisian. It is a testament to the city’s enduring spirit, its diversity, and its commitment to facing the future with resilience and creativity. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this exhibition promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for Paris and its inhabitants.

Visit the “Paris!” exhibition and immerse yourself in the heart and soul of this extraordinary city.