Why is Paris the heart of France, even though it's located so far north?

Question

Why is Paris the heart of France, even though it's located so far north?

Answer 1

Well, you've already gotten some good answers. I'd just like to point out that in the Middle Ages, France was basically what's today referred to as the Île-de-France- which is to say the greater Paris metropolitan area. Other provinces weren't annexed by France until later, and in some cases were powerful rival kingdoms for many years: Burgundy, Normandy, etc. The area surrounding Paris eventually emerged as the most dominant, however, and was ultimately able to subdue the others and bring them into the fold.

Answer 2

Because being the heart of the country doesn't mean it's in the middle; it means it's the centre of life, centre of culture, etc.

Answer 3

A long time ago, countries were very small. They contained as much land as the nobleman could defend. Paris was the center of one of these little areas. The noble ruling Paris was powerful and made treaties with nobles surrounding him to offer mutual aid in time of war. As time went on, these areas merged into one big country. Paris used to be at the geographical center of it's country. Now it is the heart of France because of history and because it is the capital. It's also a beautiful city.

Answer 4

It is where the most visitors go. It is where they "love" to go...

Answer 5

Because it is the center of beauty and the culture of FRANCE. I LOVE PARIS!!!!!!!!

Answer 6

Before the capitale was Lyon (near Italy), but I don't know why is it Paris now

Answer 7

So what !? Their heart is simply farther north than somewhere else...

Paris is the Administrative Center of the Republic !