Villa Lépine

Stepping back in time, let’s imagine 1934. Paris officials decided to honor one of their most famous police prefects. They named a place after Louis Lépine. This place, Place Louis-Lépine, sits on the Île de la Cité in the 4th arrondissement. Villa Lépine in Bois-Colombes, however, exists in a different realm. Today, Place Louis-Lépine is more than just a tribute to a historical figure. It’s a vibrant hub, home to the colorful Marché aux fleurs Reine-Elizabeth-II. This flower and bird market fills the air with fragrant blooms and cheerful chirping. Imagine strolling through the market, the scent of roses and lilies mingling with the Parisian air. At the heart of Place Louis-Lépine is the entrance to the Cité metro station. This makes it a convenient starting point for countless Parisian adventures. The square also boasts two unique features. These are the only two Wallace fountains in Paris listed as historical monuments. Place Louis-Lépine is bordered by several streets. These are Rue de la Cité, Rue de Lutèce, Rue Aubé, and Quai de la Corse. The Allée Célestin-Hennion cuts through the square, named after Lépine’s successor. Now, imagine standing on this very spot before the square existed. Originally, parts of Rue de la Pelleterie, Rue Gervais-Laurent, and the Church of Sainte-Croix de la Cité occupied this space. These were destroyed during the French Revolution and later transformed during the Second Empire. Interestingly, archaeological excavations took place here in 1913, uncovering layers of Parisian history. Dominating Place Louis-Lépine are several imposing structures. The Tribunal de Commerce, built between 1860 and 1865, stands as a testament to Napoleon III’s vision. He modeled it after the town hall in Brescia, Italy. The Prefecture de Police, originally a barracks for the Garde Républicaine, also occupies a prominent position. Lastly, the Hôtel-Dieu, Paris’s oldest hospital, completes the picture, its current buildings dating back to the late 19th century. So, as you stand in Place Louis-Lépine, remember you’re not just in a square. You’re standing on a stage where centuries of Parisian life have unfolded.