History

April 17, 2019

The Fabergé Egg: How Imperial Russia’s Most Elaborate Easter Gift Came to Be

You’ve probably heard of Fabergé eggs—opulent, egg-shaped ornaments decked with gemstones and precious metals—but did you know about their history with Imperial Russia? These highly collectible objects were manufactured under the supervision of Peter Carl Fabergé between 1885 and 1917. The first was crafted for Tsar Alexander III, who decided to give his wife—the Empress Maria Feodorovna—an extra special Easter gift in 1885.

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March 31, 2019

The Spectacular History of Mont-Saint-Michel, a Medieval Island Off the Coast of France

Nestled off the coast of Normandy is Mont-Saint-Michel, a magical site that dates back to the Middle Ages. Wrapped in a picturesque village and topped with a sky-high tower, this tidal island looks like it has been plucked from the pages of a storybook. Though it may resemble a castle in the clouds, Mont-Saint-Michel's history is not as dreamy as one would think.

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February 7, 2019

9 Royally Fascinating Facts About the Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles boasts a grandiose history. Once the epicenter of French royalty, the elegant estate has undergone several transformations since its conception in the 17th century. Here, we explore some fascinating facts about the story of this national treasure, beginning with its humble roots and concluding with its lasting legacy. Learn about the majestic monument's past and present with these Palace of Versailles facts.   1. It started out as a hunting lodge.

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January 2, 2019

130-Year-Old Video Footage Lets You Explore Everyday Life in 1890s Paris

At the turn of the century, France experienced its Belle Époque. During this “beautiful age,” the country saw drastic advancements in art, culture, and technology. One particularly important invention that emerged at this time was the projected motion picture, which Auguste Marie Louis Nicolas and Louis Jean Lumière patented in 1895. With this new technology, the Lumière Brothers captured contemporary life in 19th-century Paris, culminating in priceless footage we can still see today.

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