The Place Rhin et Danube. A name that echoes with history. It whispers of battles fought far away. It speaks of a Parisian neighborhood born from quarries. The Place Rhin et Danube wasn’t always a place. It was once deep quarries. These quarries provided excellent plaster. Legend even says this plaster helped build the White House. Imagine the journey of that plaster. Across the Atlantic. To become part of a presidential palace.
This area was once part of Belleville a commune annexed by Paris in 1860. It sits on the slope of Beauregard Hill. Beauregard means beautiful view. It was a fitting name. The view was indeed breathtaking. At least until the later construction.
The Place Rhin et Danube’s story begins in 1875. It was then called Place du Danube. It was created to provide access to the Villette horse and hay market. A failed financial venture. The city was involved. The street layout dates back to 1875. It was completed in 1889. The name changed in 1951. This commemorated the French First Army. It fought in Italy. It fought in Provence. It then fought on the Rhine and the Danube during World War II.
Paul Fouquiau a significant figure. He bought land here in 1888. He subdivided and resold it. He used the 1889 city building codes. Later he took advantage of the Siegfried Law. This law established HBM Habitations a Bon Marche low-cost housing. He built many worker’s dwellings. He also developed other Parisian areas. He worked with banks and contractors.
The Place Rhin et Danube is more than just streets and buildings. It’s a blend of architectural styles. Art Deco features can be found. The Hameau du Danube features 28 individual houses. This was designed in a quaint almost outdated style. The metro station sits on pillars over 30 meters high. These are built over the old gypsum quarries. A unique Parisian underground.
The area around the Place Rhin et Danube bears witness to Parisian development. It shows architectural shifts. It reflects economic change. The area’s houses reflect this. Smaller houses originally served a working-class population. Now they are more expensive. Gentrification continues. The neighborhood retains its charm. Small streets still offer a tranquil stroll. This is a Parisian neighborhood. A true hidden gem. A testament to time and the layers of Parisian life.