Paris is the capital and largest city of France, located on the river Seine in northern France. It has over 2 million residents within city limits and over 12 million in the surrounding suburbs, making it one of the most densely populated metropolitan areas in Europe. Paris became a major cultural and educational center in the 12th century and was one of Europe's largest cities by the 18th century. Today it remains an important global center for business, education, culture, science, and politics.