How about stepping back in time, right here on Rue Croix-des-Petits-Champs? This street resides in Paris’s 1st arrondissement. It whispers tales from centuries past.
The story of Rue Croix-des-Petits-Champs begins with small fields. These fields gave the street its name. A cross stood near a house close to Rue des Pélicans. Croix means cross in French.
Part of Rue Croix-des-Petits-Champs emerged during King Philip Augustus’s reign. Then in 1685, King Louis XIV wanted to create a better view of his bronze statue at Place des Victoires. He ordered houses on the street to align. This created a perspective. The affected part became Rue d’Aubusson. It was named after François, Vicomte d’Aubusson. He was building a grand hôtel particulier on Place des Victoires. Later, the name Rue Croix-des-Petits-Champs covered the entire road.
In 1802, Jean-Antoine Chaptal decided the street should be at least 10 meters wide. A royal order in 1837 increased it to 12 meters.
Now, let’s talk about some notable spots on Rue Croix-des-Petits-Champs. In 1793, Doctor Guillotin lived at the Hôtel Gesvres. He lived on Rue Croix-des-Petites-Champs. Number 43 is another interesting building. It is the Hôtel Portalis or Hôtel de Jaucourt. It has a unique facade. There is a projecting turret on squinches above the streets. It stands at the corner of Rue Croix-des-Petits-Champs and Rue La Vrillière.
The main entrance to the Bank of France is here. Also, you will find the Hôtel Portalis.
Famous people have called Rue Croix-des-Petits-Champs home. Jean-Baptiste Jacques Augustin lived at number 25. He was a miniature portrait painter. He lived there until at least 1831. Nicolas Tripier also lived here. He was a famous lawyer at number 42, the Hôtel de Lussan.
As we conclude our brief journey on Rue Croix-des-Petits-Champs, remember its layers of history. From small fields to royal decrees to famous residents, this street embodies the spirit of Paris.