Architecture

Haussmann's renovation of Paris during the mid-19th century created many of its wide boulevards and characteristic multi-level housing, often with shops and cafes at the ground level. The purpose of the renovations was to replace crowded, dilapidated Medieval-era housing, but some areas, such as the Marais, were untouched by the renovation of Paris. Other notable landmarks erected during the 19th century feature elaborate Art Nouveau designs popular during the Belle Epoque, such as the Palais Garnier (Paris Opera) and the Galeries Lafayette shopping centre.
The city's cathedrals are another main attraction; its Notre Dame de Paris and the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur receive 12 million and eight million visitors, respectively.
The Eiffel Tower, by far Paris' most famous monument, averages over six million visitors per year and more than 200 million since its construction.
Modern landmarks of Paris architecture include the Centre Georges Pompidou, which opened in 1977, and the Louvre Pyramid designed by I. M. Pei, completed in 1989.