Atlas of Paris at the time of Napoleon
A10873
Claiming to be the heir of Charlemagne, Napoleon wanted to build an empire that would surpass that of the Carolingians. And he wanted to make Paris the capital of this empire. He was therefore the first urban planner, working to modernize and beautify the city.
By improving public lighting, digging sewers, building markets and halls, and supplying numerous fountains, the Emperor changed the daily life of Parisians. But he also dreamed of splendor; he laid out splendid promenades, built palaces and monuments, restored others...
At the same time, the Bonaparte clan took over the palaces of royalty while the generals of the Grand Army settled in the hotels of the old aristocracy: it was in opulence, luxury and grandeur that the Napoleonic legend was to be celebrated.
sold by Musée de l'Armée - Invalides
Museum
Musée Carnavalet Histoire de Paris