Might the name of the Rue de la Mare Neuve spark a vision of a tranquil pond? This street in Paris, France holds a story that stretches back centuries. It is a story tied to the very waters that once defined the Belleville area.
The Rue de la Mare Neuve, or simply Rue de la Mare, finds its origins in an area once marked by a significant body of water. The name “Mare” is French for pond. This pond was formed by the runoff from the Belleville hills.
Let’s journey back to 1672. The Rue de la Mare Neuve was then a mere “ruelle des Nonnains” or alley of the nuns. By 1812, the section from Rue de Mènilmontant to Rue de Savies was known as “chemin de Mènilmontant”. It was part of the Belleville commune. The Rue de la Mare owes its name to an old pond formed by Belleville’s waters. This pond sat on the southern slope of the hill near the Notre-Dame-de-la-Croix church. The street’s status was formally recognized when it was classified within the Parisian road system.
The Rue de la Mare is not just a historical marker. It’s a living, breathing part of the city. The street begins at 71, Rue de Mènilmontant and stretches 670 meters to 383, Rue des Pyrénées.
One of the unique features of the Rue de la Mare Neuve is how it interacts with the Petite Ceinture. The Petite Ceinture is Paris’ former circular railway line. The Rue de la Mare is bisected by this line. It continues via a pedestrian-only metal bridge.
At number 9, you would have found the Gare de Ménilmontant, a station on the Petite Ceinture line. Since 1984, a building has stood in its place. Number 12 once housed the Passage de la Station-de-Ménilmontant. It connected the street to the Gare de Ménilmontant. Sadly, it is now closed and abandoned. The Passerelle de la Mare at number 14 provides pedestrian access over the Petite Ceinture line.
Further along at number 38 lies the Regard de la Roquette. It is a classified historical monument. A pedestrian path provides access to it. Finally, at number 71, the bakery on the corner of Place Henri-Krasucki has a storefront that is a classified historical monument.
The Rue de la Mare Neuve is more than just a street. It is a journey through time. It is a reminder of the natural springs and evolving urban landscape of Paris. It is a place where history whispers from every corner.