Did you know that the Avenue de Normandie in Paris has a story as rich as the creamy Camembert from its namesake region? This isn’t just another Parisian street. It’s a journey back in time.
The Avenue de Normandie is located in the 3rd arrondissement. It is a testament to Henri IV’s grand vision. He planned a Place de France. Streets would radiate from it, each named after a French province. This avenue proudly bears the name of Normandy.
Back in 1696, the avenue first appeared. It stretched to Rue de Périgueux, now known as Rue Debelleyme. Then in 1701, it was extended to Rue Vieille-du-Temple. However, this section became part of Rue de Turenne in 1830.
Imagine this avenue in the 1840s. Honoré de Balzac described it in “Le Cousin Pons”. He wrote how it felt like a quiet province. Grass grew between the cobblestones. Everyone knew their neighbors. The houses dated back to Henri IV’s era.
Balzac also wrote of the street’s rougher side. He described cracked pavements. There were no public fountains. Dirty water flowed through the street. It created a unique Parisian mud.
Today, the Avenue de Normandie is a charming street. It is 148 meters long and 10 meters wide. You can reach it via the Saint-Sébastien – Froissart and Filles du Calvaire metro stations.
At the end of the avenues de Turenne and de Normandie, a pedestrian square was created. Here stands a statue of a young Turenne. Benoît Lucien Hercule created it. It honors Henri de La Tour d’Auvergne. He fought nearby during the Fronde. He even lived close by. Sadly, his sword was stolen in the 2000s.
Number 6 on the Avenue de Normandie has a special story. Renée Lévy, a brave member of the French Resistance, lived here. A plaque honors her memory.
As you stroll down the Avenue de Normandie, think of its past. Picture the bustling street. Imagine Balzac observing its provincial charm. Remember Renée Lévy’s courage. The Avenue de Normandie is not just a street. It’s a living piece of Parisian history.