“A staircase masquerading as a street?” That might be your first thought about Rue du Calvaire. This isn’t your typical Parisian street.
Rue du Calvaire owes its name to a calvary. It was built in 1805. The calvary stood near the Saint-Pierre de Montmartre church atop Montmartre.
Picture this steep street. It’s really more of a staircase. It connects Rue Gabrielle to Place du Calvaire.
This unique street was created in 1844. It officially became part of Paris in 1863. There was even a plan to extend Rue du Calvaire. It would have gone beyond Place du Tertre to Rue Saint-Rustique.
Rue du Calvaire is part of the historic Vieux Montmartre site. As you climb this inclined street look around.
When you reach Place du Calvaire note its claim to fame. It is the smallest square in Paris.
At number 1 Place du Calvaire stood Maison Neumont. Painter and lithographer Maurice Neumont transformed it in 1905. Architect Louis Brachet helped him. Neumont lived and died there. A plaque honors him.
Later painter and engraver Louis Icart also died at number 1. A plaque also remembers him. During the Roaring Twenties Icart became known as the painter of the Parisian woman. Americans especially loved his work.
In 2020 the city of Paris renovated Place du Calvaire. A controversy erupted. A 120-year-old wisteria was removed. Despite protests a new wisteria was later planted. Another 90-year-old tree was also cut down.
Rue du Calvaire and Place du Calvaire offer a glimpse into Montmartre’s past. It shows its artistic heritage and the debates shaping its future. As you walk ponder the stories beneath your feet.