“A province in the heart of Paris?” someone asks. Well, not exactly. Welcome to Avenue de Poitou. It is a street with a story etched in its very name. This avenue whispers tales of grand designs and historical echoes.
Avenue de Poitou resides in the 3rd arrondissement. It sits nestled in the vibrant Marais district. This area pulses with Parisian life. The Avenue de Poitou itself stretches 234 meters. It offers a charming slice of Parisian history.
Its story begins with King Henri IV. He envisioned a grand Place de France. This square would be the heart of the Marais. Streets radiating from it would bear the names of France’s provinces. Avenue de Poitou owes its name to this royal ambition. It is named after the Poitou province.
The avenue’s creation dates back to 1626. A developer named Charlot opened it. Initially, parts of it were called Rue de l’Oseille. This was between Rue de Turenne and Rue Vieille-du-Temple. The section between Rue Vieille-du-Temple and Rue Charlot was already known as Rue de Poitou.
By 1636, manuscripts refer to the entire street as Rue de Poitou. The street evolved and became Avenue de Poitou.
Keep an eye out for number 36 Avenue de Poitou. A giant thermometer adorns its facade. This was once the sign of a measurement instrument maker from the early 20th century. It is a quirky reminder of the avenue’s past.
Getting here is easy. The Filles du Calvaire and Saint-Sébastien-Froissart metro stations are nearby. They offer convenient access to this historic street.
Avenue de Poitou offers a glimpse into Parisian history. It connects the city’s present with the ambitions of its past. As you stroll, remember Henri IV’s vision. It is a vision that gave this street its provincial name.