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CULTURE
French culture is a rich blend of history and artistry, defined
by a deep appreciation for cuisine, fashion and the art of
living well. In Paris, one of the most pleasurable activities is
whiling away the time in the city's outdoor cafés. The hub
of social and culinary life, cafés have been part of the city's
fabric since the 1600s. Even literary and artistic figures, such
as Hemingway, Colette and Picasso, frequently met here to
share ideas. Today, this legacy lives on, with thousands of
cafés lining Paris's pavements. Elsewhere, regional identities
add depth to France's cultural fabric. In Strasbourg, near the
German border, half‑timbered houses, canals and a striking
Gothic cathedral reflect a unique blend of French and German
influences, offering insight into the cultural exchange that has
defined the Alsace region for centuries.
