Ever noticed how many Parisian streets honor American presidents? The Avenue du Président J.F. Kennedy is one of them. It stands as a testament to the enduring Franco-American relationship. This major road runs alongside the Seine. It is located in the 16th arrondissement.
Let’s delve into the story of this avenue. It’s not just a road. It’s a symbol of historical ties. The avenue got its name in 1964. This was in honor of John Fitzgerald Kennedy. He was the 35th President of the United States. Kennedy’s 1961 speech at the Hôtel de Ville impressed the local council.
Before 1964 the Avenue du Président J.F. Kennedy had other names. It was once part of the route de Versailles. This route was also known as route de la Reine. Before that it was part of the route de Paris à Bayonne. This was also called route nationale 10. In 1842 it transformed and took the name quai de Passy.
The Avenue du Président J.F. Kennedy starts at 1, rue Beethoven. It extends from Avenue de New-York. It ends at Place Clément-Ader. The avenue overlooks the lower quai. Here lies the voie express Georges-Pompidou. Since 2016 a two-way bike path runs alongside it.
The Avenue du Président J.F. Kennedy has witnessed many changes. In the late 17th century the route de Versailles ran along the Seine. It passed the domaine du couvent des Minimes. It went from the rue de la Montagne to the rue des Eaux. Later Benjamin Franklin acquired land near the avenue. He established a factory producing beet sugar.
Several notable buildings mark the Avenue du Président J.F. Kennedy. The Maison de Radio France stands at number 116. It was completed between 1955 and 1962. The Avenue du Président J.F. Kennedy is more than just a street. It’s a journey through time. It connects Paris to its rich history. It also celebrates a lasting friendship with the United States.