7èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Part of Hôtel des Invalides, this striking church was originally the complex's royal chapel. Now (as then) a landmark on the skyline, the dome was completed in 1708. It rises to 331 feet at its crowning spire and is a wonderful example of classical French architecture. The structure is the burial place for many military heroes, including Napoleon. In 1989, the dome's exterior gilding was refreshed; twenty pounds of gold leaf were required for the job.

7èME ARRONDISSEMENT. This gorgeous architectural gem, completed in the 17th century, is located in the city's Faubourg-St-Germain region. It was created by Louis XIV as a home for aged soldiers and disabled veterans. Among its prominent features are a sweeping esplanade, a series of gardens, and a striking domed church, where military heroes (including Napoléon I) are interred. Also at this location is the Musée de l'Armée, an outstanding art and military history museum, with extensive armament collections. METRO: Invalides, Latour Maubourg

8èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Designed to resemble a classical Greco-Roman temple, this imposing structure was begun in 1764 and completed in the early 19th century. Although its construction and purpose suffered fits and starts, La Madeleine was ultimately deemed a church. Today, its elaborate interior boasts a wealth of religious art and iconography, including sculpture and frescoes. Nearby is a wonderful flower market and lots of excellent specialty shopping. METRO: Madeleine

5èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Modeled after the Alhambra, this Moorish-styled mosque, crowned by a minaret, was built in the 1920s. Lovely courtyards add a note of serenity to the complex, which includes a prayer hall, tea room, bath house (or hammam), and striking interiors with incredible tilework. Tourists flock to the mosque to view the decor, to indulge in fragrant mint tea and pastries, and to relax in the soothing baths. Visitors should pay due respect to Muslim traditions when they visit, including being conservatively attired and removing shoes as necessary.

3èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Housed in a majestic, circa-1650 mansion, this facility traces Jewish history in France. Smooth cobblestones from centuries past welcome visitors, showcasing 13th-century gravestones, artifacts, sacred documents and jewel-encrusted Torah cases. A somber section is also dedicated to the many Jews who lost their lives during World War II. As you make your way through the museum, don't forget to take in works by Chagall and Lipchitz. A wonderful chance for enrichment. METRO: Rambuteau (line 11), Hôtel de Ville (line 1)