Do you see that plaque on the building at number 91, Rue Pelleport? It commemorates a dramatic event that took place during World War I. On September 15, 1918, a German bomb exploded right here, during a raid by enemy aircraft. Rue Pelleport, or Pelleport Street as it is known in English, is a fascinating street in the 20th arrondissement of Paris. It’s where history comes alive, with a story to tell at almost every corner.
Stretching for 1,650 meters, Rue Pelleport was once part of the route départementale no. 40, linking the Parisian suburbs of Pantin and Charonne. It was originally called Rue de Belleville or Route de Ménilmontant, connecting the villages of Charonne and Belleville before they were part of the city of Paris. In 1868, the street was renamed in honor of Pierre de Pelleport, a general in Napoleon’s army who defended the area in 1814.
Walking down Rue Pelleport, you’ll see the vestiges of the past. Number 128 marks the former entrance to the Château de Ménilmontant. Built in the 17th century, the château was a prominent feature of the neighborhood, with its impressive gardens. Unfortunately, it was demolished in the early 19th century, leaving no trace of its existence.
Just a bit further down the street, at number 130, you’ll find the Église Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes. This church has a unique history. It was originally a simple chapel built in 1898 but was replaced a decade later with a larger church. The church’s bell tower stood proudly between numbers 116 and 124. In the 1970s, however, the church was sold to a real estate developer. The church was rebuilt in the 1980s, but this time it was placed on the ground floor of a new apartment building. Today, you can still admire the church’s intricate facade.
Rue Pelleport is a true testament to the changing face of Paris. It’s a street that tells stories, both grand and mundane, of historical events, resilient communities, and the enduring spirit of the city. As we now head towards the heart of the 20th arrondissement, make sure to keep an eye out for Rue Pelleport’s other hidden gems.