Traveling France – Ritva Sillanmäki Photography

Architectural Gems in Paris: Doors of Time

I know I’m being a bit boring by sharing these old re-edited photos for Dan’s Thursday Doors, but honestly, I’m fresh out of new material right now. I can’t wait for the weather to warm up so I can get out there and soak it all in! I’m hoping to wander through the neighborhoods, looking for unique buildings and those interesting doors that seem to hold secrets of the past, and even present. I most likely will also photograph the vibrant colors and fresh blooms along the way. I will the my camera out, and maybe discover architectural gems that tell their own stories.

In the picture, there is a traditional French building that represents typical Parisian architecture.

Well I could mark some locations in Paris for you but not all, and as these are taken in 2006, much has changed. The first one I am not able to name. By the way these were taken in the month of January.

For one, the reconstructed spire of Notre-Dame cathedral in Paris, with a design identical to the 1859 version designed by architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, is among the elements of the landmark to be reconstructed following the devastating fire in 2019. The rebuilt spire is topped with a recreation of the original cross, as well as a golden rooster designed by architect Philippe Villeneuve, who is leading the renovation works.

Scenic view of a Paris park showcasing elegant architecture framed by bare trees.

the historic Hôtel Marcel Dassault building located at the Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées square in Paris.

Close-up of classic Parisian architecture featuring intricate windows and charming rooftop details.

The elegant façade of Hôtel de Vendôme in Place Vendôme, Paris, showcasing classic Parisian architecture.

View of Place Vendôme square in Paris, showcasing its iconic architecture and elegance.

Stunning view of the ornate architecture at the Louvre, showcasing classic Parisian style.

The Rue Réaumur in Paris, featuring skillfully crafted historical buildings.

A close-up view of the ornate architecture of the Paris City Hall, showcasing its impressive spires and sculptures.

Close-up of the intricate architectural details of the clock and sculptures at Paris City Hall, highlighting its historical significance and artistic craftsmanship.

View of traditional Parisian architecture alongside the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral spire at sunset.

memories of Paris: Tuileries Palace

Photography, Traveling France

The image showcases the Pavillon de Marsan, located in the northern section of the Tuileries Palace in Paris, captured 20 years ago, as were my earlier post about France. This structure was initially built in the 1660s. Following the destruction of the original Tuileries Palace during the Paris Commune in the 1870s, it underwent reconstruction. Today, it forms part of the Louvre Palace and museum.

The Pavillon de Marsan, part of the Tuileries Palace in Paris

The Tuileries garden (Jardin des Tuileries) is in a really great spot: right between the Louvre and the place de la Concorde. If you’re after a quiet and peaceful green space, this garden might not be for you. But because of its awesome location, thousands of people flock here every year.

A serene view of the Tuileries Garden, featuring visitors enjoying the peaceful ambiance and fountains with the Louvre in the background.

The atmosphere is pleasant, with locals, joggers, and tourists from the Louvre mingling together. Numerous benches are said to line the fountains, providing a place to relax, and one can often discover a serene corner within this expansive 26-hectare garden, away from the noise of the city. However, since we visited in winter, there weren’t many chairs available.

Montmartre: window from 1790

Photography, Travel, Traveling France

A window from the residence of the first mayor of Montmartre in Paris, accompanied by a memorial plaque.
The inscription reveals that the initial mayor of Montmartre took up residence here in 1790.

Historical window of the first town hall of Montmartre, established in 1790.

Participating in Monday Window: 23 February 2026

Paris: a look at Montmartre

Cities, Photography, street photography, Traveling France

For this weeks Thursday Doors, I am continuing with the theme from my Monochrome post from yesterday, reflecting on our trip to Paris in 2006; these are such old photos that it’s enjoyable to edit them with more freedom than I typically do, allowing me to enhance the characteristics and emotions captured in each image. I can also work with images that aren’t the clearest due to this editing approach, breathing new life into them and revealing details that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.

A charming Parisian street scene featuring a crepe stand and a cozy restaurant, capturing the essence of the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

These photographs are from the renowned Rue du Calvaire in the Montmartre neighborhood of Paris way back 20 years ago, a place filled with vibrant history and artistic passion. This district is noted for its elevated terrain in the northern section of the city and has long been home to many artists who have found inspiration in its picturesque streets and charming buildings. Rue du Calvaire is especially well-known for its steep staircase that ascends the hill, where each step leads to breathtaking views and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. This location is a favored spot for providing stunning vistas of Paris, where visitors can gaze across the cityscape, absorbing the iconic skyline that has captivated hearts for generations. The ambiance evoke feelings of nostalgia and creativity, as one imagines the countless stories that have unfolded in this enchanting corner of the world.

A scenic view of Parisian stairs leading down to charming buildings, capturing the timeless beauty of the city’s architecture.

A misty view of Paris rooftops, capturing the timeless beauty of the city.

To view the enlarged images, click the gallery.

The Timeless Beauty of Paris Rooftops

Photography, Travel, Traveling France

This week, once again, I am dipping into my archives, reflecting on the memories captured during my travels. I don’t think these cityscapes from Paris are like this anymore; the city evolves with each passing year, transforming its landscape and spirit. There are sure to be changes since I took these photographs, and I find myself both nostalgic and curious about how much has shifted in that time. I think these particular images date back to 2006.

Participating in Monochrome Madness 18.02.26

A monochrome view of Paris rooftops, showcasing the architectural beauty and misty atmosphere of the city.

A monochrome view of a Paris cityscape, showcasing rooftops and a distant skyline shrouded in mist.

A monochrome view of Paris rooftops, showcasing classic architecture and urban details.

Click the gallery to see enlarged images to see my editing choices.

Wordless Wednesday

Traveling France

Historic stone fountain from 1821, a charming design amidst a rustic backdrop.

Thursday doors – Villefranche sur Mer

Black and White photos, Cities, Traveling France

I am utterly enchanted by the beauty of old buildings, their majestic arches and rustic charm drawing me in, their textures revealing the stories of time in all their weathered glory. The intricate details and historical significance of these structures deeply captivate me. I adore how light dances and contrasts, creating a mesmerizing play across the surfaces, illuminating the unique features of each masterpiece. I captured these at Villefranche sur Mer, a town that radiates charm and character at every corner. Yet, I acknowledge a composition mistake; I inadvertently cut off the arch, an essential element that conveyed the building’s grandeur, while focusing on the door, a moment I didn’t realize while I took it. This experience serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity to fully immerse oneself in a scene before pressing the shutter, as every element weaves together the photograph’s story.

Posted for Dan’s Thursday Doors

An arched doorway leading to a stone staircase, embodying the charm of old architecture.

A narrow passageway under arches with doors and rustic architecture

a narrow lane

Black and White photos, Cities, Travel, Traveling France

Same place, two strikingly different compositions of this narrow lane, and you find yourself captivated by entirely new aspects. Do you feel the same? The other image irresistibly draws your gaze towards the windows and shutters, despite offering a wealth of intricate details beyond its landscape counterpart. The interplay of light and shadow weaves a dynamic tapestry that elevates the textures of the buildings. Each detail enlightened, allowing us to revel in the artistry of the architecture. Above all, I love the contrast and the play of light here—the very essence of monochrome and black and white photography. It accentuates shapes and forms, urging us to dive deeper into the image, as the absence of color beautifully challenges us to discover elegance in both simplicity and complexity.