Founded on the island where a natural north-south highway crosses the Seine River, some 233 miles (375 kilometres) upstream from the river mouth on the English Channel, Paris, the largest city proper of continental Europe and the capital of France, is over 2,000 years old. ... Paris and its river . ... Les Invalides . Le Louvre . ... Les Buttes . Le MusИe du Grand Louvre . ... Thanks to the BMW Foundation , the WebMuseum mirrors , partners and contributors for their support. ...