Why is Paris nicknamed the City of Light?

Paris, known as the “City of Light,” owes this fascinating nickname to its rich history of lighting innovations. Contrary to what one might think, the name does not date back to the era of electricity, but to the 17th century during the reign of Louis XIV. To combat crime, Louis XIV and his minister Jean-Baptiste Colbert appointed Gilbert Nicolas de La Reynie as Lieutenant General of Police in 1667. La Reynie then illuminated the streets of Paris with lanterns and torches, requiring residents to light their windows as well. This initiative greatly impressed visitors.

In the 19th century, Philippe Lebon revolutionized urban lighting with gas, first illuminating monuments and covered passages before expanding throughout the city. By 1820, this technological advancement had transformed Paris, and forty years later, the capital counted around 56,000 street lamps. This abundance of light fascinated foreigners, reinforcing Paris’s reputation as the “City of Light.” This nickname has endured, symbolizing not only illumination but also the city’s cultural and intellectual influence.