Why is this district called Sentier? The Sentier des Grimpereaux is part of a neighborhood with a fascinating past. The name “Sentier” means “trail” or “path” in French. Some believe the area got its name from the trails around the old city walls. Others suggest it comes from a path near a garbage hill.
Let’s dive into the story of this area. Once upon a time, the Sentier was not a desirable place. It was considered dangerous and deserted. Imagine a rectangle of buildings transformed into a thriving hub. Today, the Sentier is known for textile stores and diverse commercial activities. Internet start-ups have even renamed it “Silicon Sentier”.
The Sentier’s history is full of surprising changes. Just crossing a few streets can bring you into a different atmosphere. Near Place des Victoires, you’ll find elegance. Near Saint Eustache Church, bohemian vibes fill the air. Rue Saint Denis is much noisier with a popular vibe.
Rue d’Aboukir and Rue du Caire remind us of Napoleon Bonaparte’s expedition to Egypt in 1798. Traditionally, the Sentier has been a hub for multi-ethnic textile trade. The Sentier district has been the preferred place in Paris for wholesale and retail trade of multi-ethnic textiles.
If you start at the Strasbourg Saint Denis metro exit, walk down Rue Saint-Denis. Then, turn right onto Rue d’Aboukir. You’ll enter the Sentier district, a neighborhood brimming with history. Place du Caire was once a “cour des miracles”. Beggars and vagabonds pretended to be disabled here hoping for coins.
A little further at 20 Rue Etienne Marcel, stands a vestige of medieval Paris. It is called the Tower of Jean Sans Peur. Duke Jean I of Burgundy built this fortification tower in the 15th century. Jean Sans Peur had his cousin Louis d’Orléans assassinated. To protect himself, he built this 21-meter-high tower at his residence. You can visit a small exhibition about life in 15th-century French society here. You can even see the oldest latrines in Paris.
Nearby, the elegant Place des Victoires is dedicated to Louis XIV’s military victories. It is one of the four royal squares in Paris. Luxury boutiques line the arcades attracting tourists and Parisians. A bit north, Place des Petits Pères hides the Roman basilica of Notre Dame des Victoires. Galerie Vivienne is one of the most delightful passages in Paris.
The Sentier has many faces. It has transformed from a dangerous area into a thriving commercial center. It even boasts a “Silicon Sentier” with Internet start-ups. This area has something for everyone from historical sites to charming passages. The Sentier invites you to explore its diverse atmosphere. Take a walk and discover the magic of this Parisian neighborhood.