A Parisian enigma unfolds before you. Welcome to the Quartier des Ternes. This elegant district in the 17th arrondissement boasts a rich history. It wasn’t always the posh neighborhood it is today. The Quartier des Ternes once lay outside Paris. It was a humble village surrounded by forests and marshes. Its origins trace back to a feudal residence not a religious establishment. This contrasts with many other Parisian neighborhoods.
The avenue des Ternes formed its central axis for centuries. This avenue runs right through the heart of the Quartier des Ternes. It connects the center of Paris with the western suburbs. Centuries ago this same area saw bustling activity. It was the site of the old Roule barrier. This was a significant entrance to Paris. This barrier was a imposing building with four fronts. It witnessed history’s pivotal moment. Louis XVI was captured here during his return from Varennes.
Before the grand boulevards and Haussmann’s renovations the Quartier des Ternes was different. Imagine a simpler time. A time with a modest village. The village was surrounded by a royal hunting ground. It was a far cry from the luxurious apartments you see today. The area was known as the Haut-Roule. It was located near the current Place des Ternes. The name Roule likely came from the rouliers. They were transporters of goods.
The area’s development accelerated after 1860. That’s when the village became part of Paris. The former farming areas transformed. They transformed into a chic residential and commercial hub. Grand buildings with freestone facades appeared. Elegant domes graced these buildings. Many luxury boutiques and gourmet restaurants now line the streets. The Place des Ternes is a central point today. It showcases Parisian elegance alongside dynamic modernity.
This area held a significant place in the early days of automobiles. Numerous car manufacturers and dealerships set up shop. They set up shop in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The avenue de la Grande-Armée became a hub for this industry. You’ll still find many automobile-related businesses today. The legacy of these pioneers remains. A statue of Serpolet stands in Place Saint-Ferdinand as a reminder. The Quartier des Ternes a blend of history modernity and elegance awaits exploration. Enjoy your time exploring this fascinating Parisian neighborhood.