What’s in a name? Rue de Capri. A seemingly simple question, yet behind it lies a tale of Paris. A story that whisks us away from the bustling streets of the French capital to the sun-drenched shores of a faraway island. Our journey begins right here, in the heart of the 12th arrondissement, before the unassuming Rue de Capri. At first glance, it might seem like an ordinary Parisian street. But don’t be fooled. This street holds a secret. A whisper of Italy in the City of Lights.
Rue de Capri was born in 1909, a mere blink of an eye in Parisian history. It was christened with a name that evokes images of azure waters and rugged cliffs, a tribute to the beautiful Isle of Capri in the Gulf of Naples, Italy. The architects who designed these buildings, crafted in 1910, left their own mark on this little slice of Paris. Take a closer look at the buildings lining Rue de Capri. Notice the uniformity, the harmonious blend of architectural styles? That’s the work of one dedicated individual – Ch. A. Lemaire. His vision shaped this street, his legacy etched in stone and brick. And as you stroll down Rue de Capri, keep an eye out for number 11 bis. It’s a silent testament to triskaidekaphobia, the fear of the number 13. You see, 11 bis stands in the spot where number 13 would have been, a curious quirk in the street’s numbering.
Rue de Capri, a name that whispers of Italian charm. A place where Parisian elegance meets a touch of Mediterranean flair. As we leave this charming street behind, let the echoes of its namesake linger in your thoughts.