10 Fascinating Facts About French Culture You May Not Know
France is a country of romance, fine art, cuisine, and fashion. The rich history and culture of France have been intriguing people all over the world. Let’s dive into some lesser-known facts about French culture that will surprise and delight you.
1. French People Love Cheese
Cheese is undoubtedly an essential part of French cuisine and culture. The French take their cheese so seriously that there are over 400 distinct varieties of cheese produced in different regions of France. From Brie to Roquefort, Camembert to Comté, French people are known for their love for cheese.
2. France Has the Most Nobel Prizes in Literature
France has won the highest number of Nobel Prizes in literature than any other country, with 15 French laureates. French literature has contributed significantly to world literature with renowned writers such as Voltaire, Victor Hugo, and Albert Camus.
3. The French Invented the Modern Restaurant
The concept of a restaurant, where people could order a meal from a set menu at a fixed price, was first introduced in France in the 18th century. The French Revolution further popularized these establishments, making them more accessible to the general public.
4. French People Greet with Kisses
In France, it’s customary to greet friends and family with a kiss on each cheek. This ritual is called La Bise, and it’s a fundamental part of French culture. The number of kisses varies from region to region, with two kisses being the most common.
5. France Has More Than 30,000 Castles
France is renowned for its chateaux, and the country boasts more than 30,000 castles. These stunning structures are often set in idyllic landscapes and offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history.
6. France is Home to the World’s Oldest Restaurant
The oldest restaurant in the world, La Tour d’Argent, is located in France. The restaurant has been serving guests since 1582 and is known for its duck dishes and wine cellar.
7. The French Capital is Home to the World’s Most Visited Museum
The Louvre Museum is the most visited museum in the world, with over 9.6 million visitors in 2019. The museum is home to some of the most priceless art treasures, including the famous Mona Lisa.
8. French is the Official Language of 29 Countries
Besides France, French is the official language of 28 other countries, including Belgium, Switzerland, Canada, Haiti, and several African nations. With about 200 million speakers, French is the second most studied language in the world.
9. The French Celebrate Epiphany with a Special Cake
The French celebrate Epiphany on January 6th every year with a traditional cake called Galette des Rois (King’s Cake). This cake is a puff pastry filled with almond cream, and a small figurine is hidden inside. The person who discovers the figurine becomes the king or queen for the day.
10. Public Displays of Affection are Common in France
In France, public displays of affection (PDA) are not considered taboo. It’s common to see couples kissing, holding hands, or hugging in public places, such as parks, cafes, and streets.
In Conclusion
These ten fascinating facts about French culture barely scratch the surface of what this wonderful country has to offer. France undoubtedly has a rich history and culture that continues to captivate millions of people worldwide. Whether it’s the romantic language, exquisite wine, or delicious cuisine, there’s always something new to discover in France.
