One can find several varieties of architectures while touring France. There are different well maintained monuments that give a reflection of Romanesque architecture, Italian architecture and the neoclassic designs. The diverse types of architectures were introduced at different time intervals depending on the dynasties that ruled the region of France.

The oldest known monuments build during the Carolingian period are based on the Roman style with a unique touch of Carolingian art. The interiors of the churches built during this period reflect the richness of the kingdom, as one can find heavy use of gold in decorating the churches and monasteries. The prime creation of this period which is still in an immaculate condition is the Chapel of Charlemagne. This work of ancient architecture in France also included few elements of Byzantine and early Christian art. The famous example of Romanesque architecture design is the church at Cluny in Burgundy.

After the Romanesque architecture the Gothic style influenced French architecture. Gothic architecture was introduced in France somewhere around the twelfth century. This was a period when the focus of construction shifted from building massive churches and monasteries to building commercial structures. Gothic architecture was the first type of French architecture that dominated throughout the entirety of Europe. The masterpiece of Gothic architecture was the church at Saint Denis near Paris. The Chartres Cathedral and the Amiens Cathedral were also significant works of Gothic architecture.

During the seventeenth century, when France emerged as a powerful state in Europe, the Kings aimed at having grand dwellings that were different from those that already existed in France. As a matter of this fact, the French royalty was on the lookout for a new kind of architecture, and this was the time when Italian designs became part of French architecture. The prime examples of this architecture include the Richelieu’s Palais Cardina (currently Palais Royale), Chateau de Maisons and Vaux-le-Vicomte.

By the end of the eighteenth century, French architecture got a blend of classicism which was further enhanced in the nineteenth century. In the nineteenth century, there were several new materials and techniques used for constructing various monuments. Experts like Alexandre Gustave Eiffel and Henri Labrouste were the leaders in applying these new techniques. It was in this period that Gustave Eiffel designed and constructed the world-famous Eiffel Tower in the year 1889. It was the incredible masterpiece of French architecture which stood tall over a thousand feet tall. Today, it has become an instantly recognizable symbol of France.