What if I told you that a quiet, cobblestone alley holds secrets of green mills and wartime heroes? Welcome to Allée du Moulin Harvy. It is a place that whispers tales of old Paris.
Allée du Moulin Harvy offers a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle. This 130-meter lane is near rue d’Alésia. It provides a change of scenery. Colourful doors and shutters adorn small houses here. Greenery graces the façades. Trees reach from gardens. Flowers add freshness. Residents lovingly care for them.
In 1877, Cité Chauvelot was renamed Allée du Moulin Vert. This references a nearby street. The original name honoured Alexandre Chauvelot. He was a real estate promoter. He greatly influenced the 14th arrondissement’s development. The “green mill” refers to flour mills in the area during the 18th century. These mills later became guinguettes. One guinguette was painted green. It gave its name to the street and the alley.
Look closely as you walk. You might notice a figurine watching passers-by. Perhaps you will see a recessed bell. There are also various sculptures. Signs and plaques display funny quotes. Allée du Moulin Harvy delights the senses and imagination.
This alley is more than just a pretty lane. It’s a place rich in history. Jean Moulin and Lucien Legros lived near here. They were key figures in the French Resistance during World War II. Their residence was at 26 rue des Plantes. It is at the entrance to the alley. Movie fans may know that Patrick Dewaere lived at number 25. He died there in 1982.
To find Allée du Moulin Harvy head down rue d’Alésia. Turn left onto rue des Plantes. The lane’s entrance is on the right side. It’s a short walk from the Alésia metro stop. Several bus lines also serve the area.
After your visit to Allée du Moulin Harvy consider a side trip. Visit Villa Seurat. It is accessible via bus line 62. Allée du Moulin Harvy is a reminder of Paris’s hidden charms. It’s a place where history and beauty intertwine. Take a stroll. Discover its secrets for yourself.