Top 10 Interesting Fun Facts About France You Must Know

France is the largest country in Western Europe. It is known worldwide for its history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture. To understand its unique aspects, you must know the interesting facts about France.

In the article, I will uncover shocking cultural and traditional facts about this iconic country. You will get to know the unique traditions and captivating facts about France.

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Interesting Facts About France

I will share historical, cultural, traditional, and geographical facts that will make France a must-visit destination on your list.

1. French Historical Facts 

France’s King Louis had a 20-minute reign

Do you know! France holds a record for the shortest reign in history. Louis XIX regained the title of King of France for 20 minutes. He took the throne in 1830 but gave charge to his nephew after 20 minutes of power. This record is similar to Crown Prince Luís Filipe, who became the king after his father's assassination. Prince Luís Filipe died after 20 minutes of taking the charge due to a fatal wound. Louis XIX was in favour of his nephew, King Louis Philippe I. 

The first public movie screening was held in Paris

In December 1895, the World’s first film screening was held in the Grand Café in Paris. The Lumière brothers created a camera projector called the Cinématographe. The film was not long. It was in several seconds and shown to the Lumière factory workers. 

2. Culture and Tradition of France

You can marry a dead person in France

It's shocking, but it's true. In France, it is legal to marry a dead person. However, for marriage, the person should meet the criteria and get the official approval. Marriage is possible if the dead person intends to marry the partner when alive. It happened in 2017, in which the partner of the dead police officer was allowed to conduct the wedding.  

Putting a baguette upside down is unlucky 

Baguette is a traditional French bread that weighs 250 to 300 grams and is made with flour, salt, water, and yeast. French people believe in the superstition that putting a baguette upside down is a misfortune. 

This superstition has its roots in medieval times when executions were common. The executioner had no time to come early, so the backers kept the bread for them upside down on the shelves. In recent times, putting bread upside down is considered related to death. 

France has the largest number of Nobel Prizes in Literature

France is considered the country with the most Nobel Prize winners in Literature. The Nobel Prize was introduced in 1901, and France granted 16. The authors awarded this prize include Albert Camus, Jean-Paul Sartre, André Gide, Patrick Modiano, and recently Annie Ernaux.

3. French Gastronomy (Food & Drink)

It is Illegal to throw edible food

If you are traveling to France, you must know that wasting edible food is illegal. The rule was introduced in 2016 to prevent the edible food wastage. France is known in the world for its gastronomy. Therefore, throwing away or burning edible food can cause trouble for you.   

You can eat a new cheese daily for a year.

France is the major cheese producer worldwide. Its annual production is about 1.7 million tons, and there are 16,000 varieties, ranging from creamy Brie to pungent Roquefort. Cheese is the main part of French gastronomy, and you can eat it every day for a year without repeating the same kind. The historical regional style used to make cheese that adds more flavour and texture to French cuisine.   

4. Tourist Attractions & Geography

France is the most visited tourist destination 

Almost 90 to 100 million travelers visit France each year due to its food, wine, culture, history, landscape, and architecture. The majestic Eiffel Tower is a famous tourist attraction in Paris. Travelers also like to visit Disneyland, the Louvre, and Versailles. According to the French Ministry of Tourism, in 2024, 101 million tourists visited the country. 

The national motto of France is Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité

The French nation’s motto is Liberte, Égalité, and Fraternité, which means freedom, equality, and solidarity. For the French nation, these symbolise the nation's commitment to universal rights and social justice. 

France is known as Hexagone

If you look at the French map, you will observe the six roughly square sides of the map. Locals usually give a nickname to their country called the Hexagone. This geographical structure influences its cultural identity and military strategies. France more prominent in other European countries due to its strategic boundaries. 

How to stay connected during trip to France? 

France is famous for its diverse culture, history, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscape. Trust me, this place will never board you. Every part of the country has the hidden gem and you will explore something new. But how to access the data connection to stay connected while traveling the bustling streets of France. 

The solution is eSM Card travel eSIM. The provider offer the eSIM plans for 200+ destination for the travelers and nomads. Connectivity can’t be the hurdle between your joy, buy France eSIM and start trip. 

Conclusion 

France is a country, rich in delicious cuisine, history, vibrant culture, and interesting traditions. 

In this article, you will explore French fun facts that will add curiosity and interest to your mind. The unique nickname, rich literature background, and intriguing customs will help you understand the country’s specialty. These facts will enhance your knowledge and experience of French heritage. 

FAQs

What is the old name of Paris?

Paris's old name was Lutetia, which was replaced with Civitas Parisiorum. During the late Roman Empire, it was called Paris in French. 

What are the popular tourist attractions in France? 

The most famous tourist attractions of France include the magnificent Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Mont Saint-Michel, Arc de Triomphe, Musée d'Orsay, and Loire Valley. 

Why is France famous worldwide?  

France is known worldwide for its fascinating landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Palace of Versailles. There are historical sites, castles, and countryside beaches to explore for tourists. France is known globally for its cuisine.