At night Rue Cavallotti transforms. Its ordinary shops are suddenly an open-air gallery.
Rue Cavallotti a seemingly unremarkable Parisian street holds a secret. Built between 1897 and 1900 it follows standard post-Haussmannian architecture. Architect Henri Cambon’s name is proudly carved into almost every building. For over a century it remained quiet. Then in 2011 everything changed.
A group of artists revitalized Rue Cavallotti. They received funding from the city. Their project focused on the shop shutters. These became canvases for street art. The art celebrates the Belle Epoque. This was the time when Montmartre flourished. Artists and bohemians thrived. The Moulin Rouge was in full swing.
The posters are stunning. They are recreations of old advertisements. These advertise famous bohemian hangouts. Le Chat Noir and the Moulin Rouge feature prominently. Even a poster for public baths is there. Apparently even bohemians needed a shower occasionally.
Rue Cavallotti is best visited at night or on weekends. During the day the shutters are closed. The street art is only visible when the shops are shut. So explore after 7 pm or on a Sunday. You’ll discover a unique open-air museum. It’s a quirky hidden gem. It’s a stroll through history. A reminder of Montmartre’s vibrant past.
Finding Rue Cavallotti is easy. Take the metro to Place de Clichy. You’ll see a large building. It houses a Flunch and a Castorama. Rue Forest is just to the left. It quickly becomes Rue Cavallotti. Enjoy this unique Parisian experience. Rue Cavallotti awaits its next visitor.