The elegant facade whispers tales of Parisian grandeur. Avenue d’Anjou stands before us a testament to history. This Parisian artery boasts a rich past. Its name honors Henry III once the Duke of Anjou. He ascended the French throne in 1574. The avenue’s existence is confirmed as early as the 16th century. Initially known as Rue des Morfondus it later adopted its current name.
Avenue d’Anjou wasn’t always the refined street we see today. It began life within a rural area. Farms and small houses dotted the landscape. The area was once known as the “enclosure of the Bishop’s city”. This is because the Bishop of Paris owned a country house there.
Imagine the 17th century. Young Louis d’Ailleboust de Coulonge a future governor of New France lived on Avenue d’Anjou. He resided there with his wife Barbe de Boullongne. This fact adds a fascinating transatlantic dimension to the street’s story.
The avenue was paved in 1649. This was between Faubourg Saint-Honore and Rue de la Ville-l’Eveque. As the Champs-Elysees developed from 1670 grand hotels began to rise along Avenue d’Anjou. Wealthy financiers and nobles sought residences there. The street’s expansion continued. A royal decree ordered its extension to the Grand Egout canal.
A significant landmark stands out. Number 8 Avenue d’Anjou. This hotel once belonged to Jacques Marquet de Bourgade. He was the director-general of provisions. He later rented it for a hefty sum to the Count of Artois. The count used a part of the hotel to temporarily house his stables.
The Marquis de La Fayette a celebrated general and politician resided at number 35 Avenue d’Anjou. He lived there during the Restoration period. He lived there between 1818 and 1824. His son Georges lived nearby. Lafayette’s presence adds a layer of revolutionary intrigue to the street’s identity. He even died at number 8 Avenue d’Anjou.
Many other notable figures graced Avenue d’Anjou’s history. The sculptor Etienne Maurice Falconet owned a property there. The renowned physiologist Francois Magendie died at number 8. The poet Alfred de Vigny also lived on this street.
Avenue d’Anjou’s story is one of transformation. From a rural outpost it evolved into a prestigious address. It is a street that reflects Parisian history. The avenue’s buildings stand as silent witnesses to centuries of change. They retain stories of those who shaped France’s past. Each building holds a piece of Avenue d’Anjou’s captivating history.