Ten fun facts about Baron Haussmann
Fact 1
Critics forced his resignation for extravagance, but his vision of the city still dominates Central Paris.
Fact 2
The Emperor gave him the mission of making the city more healthy, less congested and more grand. Haussmann held this post until 1870.
Fact 3
His work destroyed much of the medieval city. It is estimated that he transformed 60% of Paris's buildings. Notably, he redesigned the Place de l'Étoile, and created long avenues giving perspectives on monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe and the Opera Garnier.
Fact 4
In later life, he became known as Baron Haussmann. This use of baron, however, was not official, and he remained, legally, merely Monsieur Haussmann.
Fact 5
Haussmann had been made senator in 1857, member of the Academy of Fine Arts in 1867, and grand cross of the Legion of Honour in 1862.
Fact 6
His name is preserved in the Boulevard Haussmann.
Fact 7
Haussmann was hired by Napoleon III on 22 June 1853 and given the assignment of rebuilding the center of Paris, which had become seriously overcrowded, unhealthy, and where the narrow, winding streets were congested with traffic.
Fact 8
Haussmann's plan for Paris inspired some of the most important architectural movements including the City Beautiful Movement in the United States.
Fact 9
Cities like London, Chicago, and Moscow also have Haussmann influences in their city plans.
Fact 10
Haussmann was honest, but he spent 2.5 billion francs on rebuilding Paris, a sum that staggered his critics.
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