Imagine strolling down Avenue de Calais. Its Parisian charm is undeniable. This isn’t just any street. It’s a lane steeped in history. Named after the city of Calais. This French city endured a famous siege. It was besieged in 1346-1347 by Edward III. This siege took place during the reign of Philip of Valois. Calais was later retaken from the English in 1558. This was thanks to François de Guise. The avenue itself is relatively short just 153 meters long. Yet it holds a wealth of stories.
Avenue de Calais resides in Paris’s 9th arrondissement. It sits on the edge of the historic New Athens district. This district is known for its elegant 19th-century buildings. Many line the avenue. The street gently slopes. It begins at Rue Blanche and ends at Place Adolphe-Max. Near Place Adolphe-Max you’ll find the charming Square Hector-Berlioz. Imagine the sounds of Berlioz’s music echoing through this square. This square now brings a peaceful presence to the scene.
The avenue’s history goes back further than its elegant buildings. It was created in the mid 19th century. Royal authorization was granted for its construction. The land belonged to MM Tirouflet and Cie. The land was part of the old Tivoli gardens. This was once the estate of the La Bouexière pavilion. Louis-Philippe himself authorized the construction. This was done in an ordonnance dated June 21 1841. Five streets and a new square were created on this land. The width of the streets was set at 12 meters. The property owners had to donate the land for the new streets.
Avenue de Calais also boasts impressive residents. Hector Berlioz lived at number 4. He lived there in the fourth-floor apartment. He finished his masterpiece Les Troyens there. Sadly he died there as well. Other notable residents include the composer Antonin Marmontel. The opera singer Anna Thibaud also resided here. Even the painter Édouard Vuillard lived on Avenue de Calais. He lived at number 26 from July 1908 to September 1926. The avenue’s legacy extends beyond its famous residents. It’s a testament to Parisian history. It’s a testament to the city’s resilience and its enduring artistic spirit. As you walk down Avenue de Calais today. Remember the centuries of history woven into its very stones. It’s a street that whispers secrets. It’s a street that remembers the past.