“Long furrows” that’s what “Longs Réages” evokes. Picture farmers of old guiding their plows. The Sentier des Longs Réages whispers tales of Paris’s evolving identity.
In times past, the lands now encompassing the Sentier district were deemed unsafe. They were considered too dangerous for habitation or even transit. Fast forward to today. The Sentier has transformed into a vibrant center for textile businesses. A diverse range of commercial activities thrive here too.
Cross a few sidewalks in Paris. Witness the city’s magical atmospheric shifts. The Sentier district embodies this phenomenon. It presents multiple facets to those who explore it.
Venture near Place des Victoires. Explore the neighboring streets. Rue des Petits Pères and Rue la Vrillière await. You will discover one distinct aspect of the district. In contrast, approach Saint Eustache Church. Here, a “bobo” or bohemian bourgeoisie crowd savors the sunny terraces.
Rue Saint Denis and its adjacent areas present a stark contrast. They are noisier and more bustling. This section of Sentier includes Rue d’Aboukir and Place du Caire. These street names commemorate Napoleon Bonaparte’s Egyptian expedition in 1798. Sentier traditionally served as Paris’s hub for multi-ethnic textile wholesale and retail.
The Sentier has earned a new moniker. It is now known as “Silicon Sentier.” This is because numerous Internet start-ups have established their presence here. Even influential companies like Adopteunmec.com have offices in the area. They are located on Rue Berger.
Step into a realm brimming with historical echoes. Upon exiting the Strasbourg Saint Denis metro station, take a stroll along Rue Saint-Denis. Then turn right onto Rue d’Aboukir. You will find yourself entering the Sentier district. On the left side of the sidewalk, you’ll see Place du Caire. It was once a “cour des miracles” or court of miracles. Beggars and vagabonds would feign disabilities. They hoped to elicit coins from passersby.
Continue a little further. Locate number 20 Rue Etienne Marcel. Here stands a relic of medieval Paris. It bears a curious name. It is the Tower of Jean Sans Peur. Duke Jean I of Burgundy built this ancient fortified tower in the 15th century. He was also known as Jean Sans Peur. In 1407, Jean Sans Peur orchestrated the assassination of his cousin, Louis d’Orléans. Seeking protection from potential retaliation, he commissioned the construction of this fortified tower. It stands 21 meters tall at his residence. History enthusiasts can explore a small exhibit. It showcases life and French society in the 15th century. Visitors can also discover the oldest latrines in Paris.
Not far from here lies Place des Victoires. It is an elegant square dedicated to Louis XIV’s military triumphs. His equestrian statue stands in the center. This is one of the four royal squares in the capital. The arcades surrounding the square house luxury boutiques. Their stunning window displays attract tourists and affluent Parisians.
Venture a bit further north. Here, Place des Petits Pères conceals the Roman basilica of Notre Dame des Victoires. Since 1836, it has been dedicated to Mary. It boasts an impressive collection of offerings and relics. Finally, don’t miss the Galerie Vivienne. It stands as one of Paris’s most enchanting passages.
The Sentier des Longs Réages has witnessed Parisian life evolve. From dangerous outskirts to a modern hub. It embodies Paris’s dynamic spirit.