Have you ever wondered why a narrow street in Paris bears the name of someone called Lechapelais? Rue Lechapelais, a modest lane in the 17th arrondissement, is named after an old landowner. The street was part of the commune of Batignolles, a small village enveloped by the growing city of Paris. The 19th century saw great changes for the Rue Lechapelais. It was officially incorporated into the city’s street network. You can still see its rustic charm, but it is now a lively location in the urban landscape, with cafes, shops, and residences. What exactly happened in the 19th century? The commune of Batignolles was absorbed by Paris. Before that happened, Rue Lechapelais was a quiet lane connecting the avenue de Clichy with rue Lemercier. Today, it’s a bustling place, full of the sights and sounds of everyday Parisian life. Perhaps you can imagine the local inhabitants, perhaps even Lechapelais himself, walking down the Rue Lechapelais. Would they ever imagine their lane would become part of the heart of Paris?
Église Notre-Dame de l’Air
Beneath what appears to be a simple stone and wood structure lies a history interwoven with faith aviation and community.