26. The Carolingian Renaissance

28. All Good Things Must Pass

No one goes on forever and Charlemagne in his last years dealt with rebellion and family tragedy before leaving a precarious future for his heirs, for Europe and for Paris.

27. The Roman Empire Strikes Back

Charlemagne had conquered and stabilised the Frankish Kingdoms, embellishing its churches and encouraging learning and education, where could he go from here? Become an Emperor of course.

26. The Carolingian Renaissance

Alcuin of York, one of Charlemagne's greatest friends and teachers was one of the most brilliant people of his age, and his work supported by the great king would lay the seeds of learning and knowledge that lives still to this day in Paris.

25. The Birth of a Legend

Charlemagne stands astride the early medieval world like a colossus and his achievements will lay the foundation for a period of artistic renaissance that will bless Paris to this day. Threats are aplenty to his rule, but he pretty much consistently will rise to the challenge and overcome them with aplomb.

24. Friends in High Places

Pepin the Short had deposed the Merovingians, but he needed legitimacy, and if there was one man who could give him that, it was the Pope in Rome.