“A shortcut to history”. This phrase perfectly describes the Passage des Panoramas. Here, right in front of me, the oldest covered passage in Paris invites us.
The Passage des Panoramas opened in 1800. Imagine Paris back then. The streets were narrow dark and often muddy. Sidewalks and streetlights were rare. Shopping was not a pleasant experience.
The Passage des Panoramas was innovative. It offered a dry and well-lit alternative. Glass roofing let in natural light. Gas lamps provided illumination at night.
William Thayer, an American shipowner, built the passage. He displayed panoramic paintings inside. These paintings depicted famous cities. Paris Toulon Rome and Jerusalem all appeared. This attraction gave the passage its name.
Robert Fulton, the inventor, was behind these panoramas. He sought to sell his inventions to Napoleon. These included the steamboat submarine and torpedo. While awaiting Napoleon’s decision Fulton earned income through his exhibition.
Napoleon rejected Fulton’s ideas. Fulton moved to London. But the Passage des Panoramas remained. It became a favorite promenade for Parisians.
In 1817 the Passage des Panoramas became the first public space in Paris with gas lighting. This inspired other shopping arcades. It also influenced later covered shopping centers.
The original rotundas disappeared in 1831. Later, architect Jean-Louis Victor Grisart renovated the passage. He added three more galleries. These connected to the Théâtre des Variétés.
Over time the Passage des Panoramas attracted various businesses. Engravers postcard sellers and restaurants all moved in. Today you can still visit Caffè Stern. Its interior design remains unchanged since the passage was built.
Émile Zola described the passage in his novel Nana. This shows its cultural significance in 19th-century Paris.
The Passage des Panoramas stands as a testament to Parisian history. It evolved from an exhibition space to a bustling commercial center. Its architecture and history continue to captivate visitors. Take a stroll through. Experience a piece of Parisian history.