France Culture

The nation of France has been a cultural center for ages. Once a part of the Roman Empire, it developed its own identity as a Catholic kingdom during the Medieval period. It became a center for art, architecture and education – some of Europe’s most recognized cathedrals, like Notre Dame de Paris, and a variety of monasteries (which later became universities) arose during this time period. Then, as the Enlightenment blossomed, philosophy flourished. Political thinkers like Montesquieu and Voltaire were influential far beyond the borders of their home country, playing a role in both the French and American revolutions. In the 1800s, literature from Victor Hugo and Alexandre Dumas gained popularity just as the works of impressionist painters like Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. At the dawn of the 20th century, Pablo Picasso made Paris his home before taking the art world by storm.

Art in France

Some might say the French artistic tradition dates to the Paleolithic era. Cave paintings show up on stone walls throughout the countryside in sites like Altamira, Font de Gaume, Lascaux, and Les Trois Frères. This continued as the culture evolved over the years, exploding after the French Revolution in 1789. Edgar Degas, Francis Picabia and Edouard Manet are among the litany of painters that created masterpieces while calling France home during the 19th century. At the same time, works of literature like Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and Madame Bovary introduced the world to the writing talents of native sons like Jules Verne and Gustave Flaubert.

France has long been considered an important center for European music, as well. Characterized by a blend of indigenous folk music with styles imported by immigrants from Africa, Latin America and Asia, its modern sound is a unique fusion of rhythms and melodies. Of course, it has produced its fair share of legendary classical composers, too: Maurice Ravel, Claude Debussy and Hector Berlioz are among a distinguished list of musicians who worked within French borders.

With the reputation growing rapidly, France became home to thousands of museums. The most famous are the Musee du Louvre and Musee d’Orsay, but there are several dedicated to one artist alone, notably the Musee Picasso in Paris. The collections of art and artifacts are amazing – only a handful of museums worldwide can compare. 

Languages in France:

• French is the official language spoken by about 88% of the populace.
  
• 3% of the inhabitants speak German.
  
• 0.2% of the population predominantly in the northeast speaks Flemish.
  
• Approximately 1.7% of the population speaks Italian.
  
• Basque is spoken by 0.1% of the population.
  
• 0.4% of the French population speaks Catalan.
  
• 1.2% of the French population residing mainly in the north west of France speaks Celtic.
  
• 12% of the population in the South of France speaks Occitan
  
• 1.7% of the population speaks Arabic
  

Religions of France

France is home to people with various ethnic backgrounds including Celts, Romans, Germans, Russians, Asians, Africans North Americans and recent immigrations. The people of France are known worldwide for their sophisticated approach towards life, combined with great concern for style, fashion and appearances.France had been an important cultural center of the world for many centuries, with Paris being the cultural hub. Even today, France contributes greatly to the fashion culture of the world.

Islam is the second largest religion in France, mostly practiced by immigrants from former French colonies in Northern Africa. Other religious groups in France include Protestant, Jews, and Buddhists (though negligible). Atheists also form a large percentage of French population.

Cuisines and Wines of France

France is known worldwide for its rich varieties of cuisines and wines. French Cuisine is regarded as one of world's most elegant and refined cuisines, renowned for both its classical and provincial styles. The style of French cuisine has influenced almost all Western cuisines, and it forms basis for all other forms of Western cooking. France is known for its varieties of wines and cheeses, which form an integral part of French cuisine, both as ingredients and accompaniments. French cuisine and cooking style is part of culture of France, and people take a high pride in the cuisine of their country.

French Society and Culture

French cinema, music and literature reflect the multicultural France. Contemporary France is a blend of myriad linguistic and religious traditions. Extremely tolerant, highly fashionable, industries and the local cuisine speaks of distinct social, cultural and political prospect of the country. The recognition of lesbianism, homosexuality and gay marriages mirrors the liberalism and progressiveness of the French.

French Religion:

France is a highly secular nation which accommodates Catholics, Protestants, Muslims, Jews and atheists with equal respect and pride.

French Cuisine:

French food is rightly regarded as one of the world's most elegant and refined cuisines, regardless of whether you are considering its high-end or country styles. The trademark attention to detail and inventiveness have influenced almost all Western cuisines, particularly the British and Spanish, and it could be argued French desserts are the basis for ending a meal in Western cooking. The French take great pride in this and emphasize quality in all they produce – whether a sumptuous cheese, decadent wine or mouth-watering pastry.

France and Fashion:

For centuries, Paris has billed itself as the “Fashion Capital of the World.” Though the city of Milan would beg to differ, there can be little argument outfits on the catwalks of France affect trends on streets the world over. Famous designers, like Louis Vuitton and Yves Saint-Laurent, have created massive businesses built on innovative and chic designs. And, every March and October, thousands descend on the city for fashion week to see the latest concepts in apparel from all over the planet.