A LETTER FROM THE SILVER STATE | |
Dear reader,
This week, one of the Louvre Museum's greatest masterpieces quietly welcomed visitors once again. The magnificent Apollo Gallery (Galerie d'Apollon) has reopened following conservation work, inviting guests to admire one of the most spectacular Baroque interiors in France. Created during the reign of Louis XIV and adorned by Charles Le Brun, the celebrated artist who also designed the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles, the gallery remains a masterpiece of French decorative arts. While the Crown Jewels that once occupied its display cases remain absent following last year's unprecedented theft, the true treasure has always been above our heads: extraordinary ceilings, gilded ornamentation, and centuries of artistic brilliance that continue to define the grandeur of the Louvre.
From royal splendor to a historic modern gathering, Paris now turns its attention to an event that will draw the eyes of the world.
In late September, Pope Leo XIV will make his first visit to the French capital, with celebrations expected to attract hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and visitors. From a procession through the streets of Paris and Vespers at Notre-Dame Cathedral to a large public Mass on the Place de la Concorde, the visit promises to be one of the city's most significant events of the year. If your autumn travels include Paris, be prepared for extensive security measures, transportation adjustments, and road closures. We'll continue following the latest developments and share practical information as it becomes available to help you make the most of your visit.
And finally, something special from us. Today, we're delighted to reveal another exclusive preview page from our upcoming Passport to Culture Notebook 2026. Designed for curious travelers, lifelong learners, and lovers of culture, the notebook transforms discovery into an interactive experience through original activities inspired by France, America, diplomacy, history, art, and heritage.
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Pre-orders are now open! Click HERE.
For the first time, the Passport to Culture Notebook 2026 is available in a digital edition, with a print edition available later by special order. And don't worry; the complete Answer Key is included at the end of the Notebook, so you can check your answers and discover even more along the way.
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America and France have shared an extraordinary story for nearly 250 years.
How well do you know the people, events, and milestones that forged one of history's most enduring alliances?
This week's challenge:
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| Which historic event took place in 1778? | | | | Think you know the answer? Cast your vote! | | | | |
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IN CONVERSATION THIS WEEK
HERITAGE • CASTLES • ARTS & CULTURE • MUSIC • PHOTOGRAPHY • SPORTS
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HERITAGE
How France is Protecting its Museums
What happens behind the scenes after a priceless work of art is stolen? France's answer may surprise you. From organized art theft to climate change and cutting-edge science, discover how one of the world's richest cultural treasures is being protected for generations to come.
READ THE FULL STORY →
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CASTLES & ESTATES
The American Castle That Was Almost Lost Forever
It was once one of the grandest homes ever built in the United States. Then it was abandoned, vandalized, and left on the brink of ruin. So how did OHEKA Castle survive? Discover the remarkable story of ambition, decline, and one of America's greatest architectural comebacks in our latest feature on FQM.
READ THE FULL STORY →
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ARTS & CULTURE
When Does Art Become a Matter of Freedom?
Can a dance performance become an international issue? What began as an evening on Capitol Hill became a fascinating conversation about culture, censorship, artistic freedom, and the role of the arts in a democratic society. Our latest feature explores why the freedom to create, and to experience culture, may be one of the most important freedoms of all.
READ THE FULL STORY →
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MUSIC
What if one of America's earliest practitioners of soft power wasn't a diplomat, but a record executive?
Long before the term entered the vocabulary of international relations, Harry H. Pace understood that music could reshape perceptions, challenge prejudice, and elevate a nation's cultural voice. In an exclusive conversation with historian Professor David Suisman, we explore how Black Swan Records became far more than a record company; it became a pioneering force in cultural influence.
READ THE FULL STORY →
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PHOTOGRAPHY
What makes a photograph unforgettable?
For legendary photographer Barry Morgenstein, it's never just about the image; it's about capturing a moment that can never be repeated. In our exclusive interview, the acclaimed photographer behind iconic portraits of Paul McCartney, Michael Jackson, Elton John, Whitney Houston, and many more reflects on the art of analog photography, the rise of AI, and why authenticity still matters. Plus, discover how you can book a session with Barry during his exclusive Headshots Weekend in the Washington, D.C. area on August 29–30.
READ THE FULL STORY →
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SPORTS
From World Cup hero to France's new head coach
A new era begins for Les Bleus. Football legend Zinédine Zidane has officially been named head coach of France's national team. Discover what his long-awaited return means for soccer, and for the nation itself.
READ THE FULL STORY →
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COMING SOON
In Our Next Newsletter...
| | An exclusive interview with Dr. Judy Staveley, Founder and CEO of The Platform Magazine, on the power of purpose-driven journalism, meaningful storytelling, and how media can inspire leadership, preserve heritage, and strengthen communities across the globe. | | Europe's New Space Race — From Airbus and ArianeGroup to the future of Ariane 6, discover how France is helping lead Europe's renewed ambition in aerospace, innovation, and autonomous access to space. | |
- European Heritage Days 2026 — Our editors' guide to the exceptional monuments, embassies, ministries, and historic residences opening their doors across France for one unforgettable weekend.
- The New Riviera — From Monte-Carlo to Saint-Tropez, discover the hotels, beach clubs, restaurants, and cultural experiences redefining luxury travel on the French Mediterranean coast.
- The New Face of French Gastronomy — Meet the chefs who are preserving France's culinary heritage while shaping its future through regional ingredients, sustainability, and innovation.
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