Does this quiet street in Paris’s 8th arrondissement whisper tales of battles and artistic souls? This is Rue Marignan. It connects the Champs-Élysées and Avenue Montaigne. Let’s explore its story.
Rue Marignan emerged in 1858. It was built on the grounds of the former Jardin d’Hiver. This vast greenhouse was filled with tropical plants. It stretched between Avenue Montaigne and Rue Marbeuf. The street’s name honors the Battle of Marignan in 1515.
During World War I, Rue Marignan faced a German air raid on September 27, 1914. Buildings have been destroyed here. Number 12 once housed the Hôtel de la Vénerie Impériale. It was also known as the Hôtel de Choiseul-Gouffier. Edgar Ney, son of Maréchal Ney, lived here. He organized the imperial hunting parties for Napoléon III. Later, Princess Alix de Choiseul-Gouffier resided here. She displayed her art collections. Today, the Hôtel Marignan Champs-Élysées stands in its place.
Several notable figures have called Rue Marignan home. Yvonne de Bray, a dramatic artist, lived at number 16 in 1910. American painter Mary Cassatt lived at number 10 from 1887 until her death in 1926. Marie Leconte, a comedian from the Comédie-Française, lived at number 14. The writer Stéphen Liégeard resided at number 21 in 1910. Pol Plançon, an opera singer, lived at number 16.
At number 2 bis, Mariano Fortuny y Madrazo had a boutique from 1912 to 1922. Number 4 holds a secret. In 2018, a painting from 1674 was discovered during renovations for an Oscar de la Renta boutique. It depicted the arrival of the Marquis de Nointel in Jerusalem. The president Valéry Giscard d’Estaing had his office at number 6. He used it as his campaign headquarters in 1981.
The Neurdein firm captured Rue Marignan in photographs. Founded in 1864, the firm became known for tourist views. They photographed the Paris World Fairs. Their postcards were widely distributed.
Today, the Hotel Marignan Paris stands at 12 Rue de Marignan. It is a five-star hotel in a quiet street. The hotel is near the Grand Palais and art galleries. Its location associates it with art and culture. The interior architect Pierre Yovanovitch transformed the hotel. He created a contemporary luxury space.
Rue Marignan offers glimpses into Parisian history. From battles to artistic endeavors, it has witnessed many changes. As you stroll along, remember the stories that echo through its buildings.