“Ever wonder where streets get their names?” Here we are at Avenue la Bruyère. It’s a slice of Parisian history. This avenue in the 9th arrondissement carries a story of art, intellect, and Parisian life.
Avenue la Bruyère owes its name to Jean de La Bruyère. He was a noted French philosopher and moralist. Born in 1645, he left his mark on French literature. His work “Les Caractères” explored human nature.
In 1824, developers secured permission to shape this area. They planned a circular plaza and new streets. One street was intended to honor Charles Percier. Percier was a celebrated architect. He declined the honor. Thus, the street was named after La Bruyère.
Originally, Avenue la Bruyère was part of Rue Boursault. This happened in 1839. Later, Rue Boursault merged fully into Avenue la Bruyère.
The avenue is home to La Petite Loge. This is one of Paris’ smallest theaters. It has only 25 seats. It began as a forgotten conference room. Two actors transformed it in 1943.
Another highlight is the Théâtre La Bruyère. It stands at number 5. This theater has a rich performance history.
Daniel Iffla, also known as Osiris, once owned a mansion here. He was a noted philanthropist. He owned several properties in the area.
The painter Auguste Renoir lived at number 26. He resided here from 1896 to 1902. A commemorative plaque marks his former home.
Jean Cocteau spent his childhood at number 45. His grandparents owned a hotel there. Cocteau recalled his memories in his book “Opium”.
The building at number 39 served as the facade for “Le Locataire”. Roman Polanski directed this film.
The painter Jean-Jacques Henner died at number 41. A plaque commemorates him.
The sisters of the Trinity ran an externat at number 40. They occupied the building until 1989.
Avenue la Bruyère retains the imprint of its cultural past. In 1824, its layout was designed during Paris’s romantic era. The neighboring Rue Pierre Fontaine honors the Empire architect.
The Taylor Foundation is at number 1. It supports and promotes artists since 1844. Albert Maignan lived here. He bequeathed the building to the Foundation.
At number 2, La Petite Loge is “the smallest theater in Paris”. Le Petit théâtre du Bonheur is smaller, with only 20 seats.
Albert Brasseur and Aurélien Scholl also lived at 3bis. Brasseur was an actor and operetta singer. Scholl was a journalist and writer.
The painter Lévy-Dhurmer also lived here. He painted the most famous portrait of Rodenbach.
Marceline Desbordes Valmore, a French poet, lived at number 8. She published “Violette” and “Pauvres Fleurs” here. Verlaine considered her an innovative poet.
At number 9 is the mansion of Daniel Iffla, known as Osiris. He was known for his generosity.
Adolphe Tavernier, a journalist and collector, lived at number 11. He collected paintings by Sisley.
Avenue la Bruyère, a street of art, theater, and philanthropy.