Paris in the 16th century Paris in the 16th century During the 16th century, Paris was the largest city in Europe, with a population of about 350,000 in 1550. The 16th century saw the Renaissance arrive in Paris, expressed in the city's architecture, art and cultural life. The Kings of France returned to Paris from the Loire Valley. Paris. In 1534 Francis I became the first French king to make the Louvre his residence. Under King Francis I, the Renaissance style of architecture, imported from Italy, was widely used in churches and public buildings, replacing the gothic style. Paris landmarks built during the 16th century
Paris in the 16th century beams. The facades were covered with white plaster to prevent fires. A few examples of houses from the period, restored to their original appearance, still remain in the Marais; the houses at 13-15 rue Francois Miron (15th-16th centuries) and at 29-31 rue Galand (5th arrondissement), from the first half of the 16th century. The "hôtel particular", or large private residence, began to appear in the Marais, after the French court returned to Paris. They numbered about twenty, and, unlike ordinary houses, they were made of stone. They were built around a courtyard, and separated from the street. The residence was