“A straight shot to Strasbourg,” they used to say about the Avenue de Strasbourg. Right here in the heart of Paris, this grand boulevard cuts through the 10th arrondissement. It’s a far cry from the winding, medieval streets that once characterized this area. The Avenue de Strasbourg was the brainchild of Baron Haussmann, Napoleon III’s master planner. His vision? To modernize Paris, creating wide avenues that improved traffic flow and enhanced the city’s beauty. The Avenue de Strasbourg, completed in 1853, was a key part of this grand scheme. This avenue was designed as a direct route to the Gare de l’Est, the grand train station from where travelers embarked on journeys to Strasbourg and beyond. Imagine the hustle and bustle of travelers rushing to catch their trains, the clatter of horse-drawn carriages on the cobblestones. Today, the Avenue de Strasbourg remains a vibrant artery. It’s a testament to Haussmann’s vision, a reminder of the city’s grand past, and a bustling hub for contemporary Parisian life.
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.