“Toute vieille, toute jolie, on dirait qu’elle s’est maquillée.” So goes the saying about Villa Poissonnière. Here before us lies a hidden gem in Paris’s 18th arrondissement. This is the Villa Poissonnière.
The Villa Poissonnière offers a tranquil escape. It is far removed from the city’s hustle and bustle. This picturesque alley is framed by charming houses. Most date back to the early 19th century.
Let’s explore Villa Poissonnière’s history. In the early 1800s, the Goutte d’Or area developed. It was then part of the village of La Chapelle. Land was divided and sold. Benoît Véro, a co-owner of Galerie Véro-Dodat, commissioned architect Dupuy. Dupuy built this villa. Thirteen houses, each with a garden, were built. They lined a private path. This happened in the 1830s.
Notice the name Villa Poissonnière. It comes from the nearby Rue des Poissonniers. This evokes the route fishmongers used. Since the Middle Ages, fish was brought from Dieppe. It was sold at Les Halles market.
The Villa Poissonnière is a private street. It is not generally open to the public. It begins at 42 Rue de la Goutte-d’Or. It ends at 41 Rue Polonceau. The Villa Poissonnière is approximately 90 meters long. It is only 2.8 meters wide.
Look closely at the houses. They reflect an English style. Many have small front gardens. Some feature floral decorations from the 1900s. The house at number 15 is a fine example. A small square has even been created in the middle of the Villa Poissonnière.
The singer Alain Bashung lived at number 8 Villa Poissonnière. He lived here until his death in 2009. He was very involved in the neighborhood. He felt a strong connection to Montmartre.
Ask a resident politely for access to fully appreciate it. This hidden street offers a glimpse into a bygone era. It is a reminder of the Goutte d’Or’s rich history. The Villa Poissonnière remains one of the best-preserved areas in the neighborhood. The surrounding area changed rapidly. Many regretted the unplanned real estate projects. The Villa Poissonnière provides an authentic vision.