A whisper of history hangs in the air. This is the Sente des Vendanges. It’s not a grand boulevard or a famous square. Yet its story is woven into the very fabric of Montmartre.
The Sente des Vendanges is a small street. It’s intimately linked to the Clos Montmartre vineyard. This tiny vineyard is a testament to Montmartre’s past. Once three-quarters of the Butte was covered in vines. Imagine rows and rows of grapes stretching as far as the eye could see. That was Montmartre before the buildings rose.
The vineyard disappeared in 1928. A wave of urban development threatened to erase it completely. However a group of dedicated people fought back. They were local heroes. Think of Pierre Labric. He was the mayor of the Free Commune of Montmartre. Then there was Jean-Louis Forain Francisque Poulbot and Adolphe Willette founders of the Republic of Montmartre. Victor Perrot President of the Society of History and Archaeology “Le Vieux Montmartre” also played a vital role. These individuals rallied together. They saved the land at the corner of Rue des Saules and Rue Saint-Vincent. Their efforts ensured the survival of the Clos Montmartre.
In 1933 the vines were replanted. This was no ordinary replanting. It was an act of defiance against encroaching modernity. It was a preservation of heritage. The city of Paris supported this project. Neighboring towns donated vines.
The first harvest celebration followed in 1934. This marked the beginning of the Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre. Mistinguett and Fernandel were the first sponsors. The festival has grown since its humble beginnings. Now it’s one of the largest events in Paris.
Today the Sente des Vendanges reminds us of this remarkable story. It’s a quiet street. But it’s a living link to a time when wine flowed freely from the slopes of Montmartre. The spirit of those who fought to preserve this unique part of Paris still lingers here. It continues to inspire the vibrant harvest festival. The Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre is a celebration of history culture and the enduring spirit of this special place.