Fun Facts About France13 July 2009  You may think you know everything about this country but here are some fun facts about France that you may not know. France is the second largest country in Europe and is almost the size of Texas. It is the number one tourist destination in the world attracting over 82 million tourists each year.
The highest point in Western Europe is Mount Blanc which is in the Alps between France and Italy. The snow on the top of the Alps can last up to six months.
The Louvre, one of the most notable museums in the world is home to Leonardo DaVinci's Mona Lisa. Other masterpieces are also on display in the Louvre by Monet, Renoir and Cezanne.
Paris, the capital of France is also the largest city in the country. Paris is home to one of the most recognizable symbols of France, the Eiffel Tower. The tower was built in 1889 and was meant to be temporary, however the 984 foot structure still stands today and is probably the most visited spot in France.
Every year in July the world focuses on France for the ultimate bicycle race in the world, the Tour de France. The 2, 000 mile race can last up to three weeks and the route changes every year.
The Cannes Film Festival was started in 1946 and it continues to lead the way for films from all over the world. It is held annually and is attended by the most famous movie stars the world over.
Some of the best cuisine is a result of the culinary expertise found in France. Most chefs from around the world are French trained with simpler techniques and a focus on delicious sauces. Many of the delicate pastries that we have come to know and love originated in France. Definitely the mecca for haute cuisine, Paris alone has over 9, 000 restaurants.
France is the largest producer of wine in the world and has the second largest area of vineyards. France is responsible for putting out 7 to 8 billion bottles of wine every year.
And along with wine, France is the leading producer of cheese. Originally they had created from 350 to 400 different varieties of cheese but today it is closer to 1000. There are cheeses from virtually every region in France. They also have 56 cheeses that are classified and protected under French law. Some of the country's most notable contributions include bleu, camembert, Roquefort and boursin.
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