Few travelers and tourists visiting Paris, France, realize that the famous cathedral of Notre-Dame is actually situated on an island. The Ile de la Cité is usually referred to as the epicenter of Paris, as well as the original site of the Parisi tribes of the Sequana river, now known as the Seine. This was possibly the earliest settlement in Paris--- a muddy town on the banks of a muddy river that grew to be known as one of the most beautiful places in the world. The official "navel" can be found on a small bronze plaque in the square in front of the cathedral. This is just a few steps from where the early Romans set up shop in the 50's (A.D that is) This is technically the very center of France