“A forest in the city?” you might ask, eyebrows raised. Right here, at the bustling Allée du Colonel Fabien? Yes indeed! This square, once a place of shadows and echoes, is transforming into a green haven. Before 2025, Allée du Colonel Fabien was a typical Parisian square, better known for its iconic tenant: the French Communist Party headquarters. This architectural marvel, a gift from Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, has stood as a symbol of political ideology since 1971. But Allée du Colonel Fabien holds a darker past. Imagine, for centuries, a looming gibbet stood nearby. Known as the Gibbet of Montfaucon, it cast a grim shadow over the area, a stark reminder of royal justice. Centuries later, the square became known as the “Place du Combat,” hosting brutal animal fights that captivated and appalled Parisians until the late 19th century. Today, Allée du Colonel Fabien is turning over a new leaf. The city is planting a lush urban forest, a testament to Paris’s commitment to sustainability and a brighter future. Soon, this square will be alive with the rustle of leaves, the songs of birds, and the laughter of children playing amidst the trees. The Allée du Colonel Fabien: a blend of history, architecture, and a hopeful future, all woven into the fabric of Paris.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to