A Parisian lane whispers secrets. This is the Chemin Saint-Vincent. It’s a hidden gem in the 18th arrondissement partially nestled in the Montmartre district. This unassuming street holds a fascinating past. Its name isn’t from a saint but from a former local owner Vincent Compoint.
Chemin Saint-Vincent was already on Albert Jouvin de Rochefort’s 1672 map of Paris. By 1825 it was called “chemin des Ruelles Saint-Vincent”. It was a path in the old commune of Montmartre. It officially became a Parisian public road sometime later. Imagine the street’s transformation over centuries.
The street underwent significant changes. In the 1870s it was lowered by three meters. This removed access through an arch to the Saint-Vincent cemetery. The cemetery’s relocation dramatically altered the street’s surroundings. The street’s history is rich with artistic and literary connections.
Painters like Charles Genty Bernard Damiano Jean Dannet and Roland Dubuc lived and worked here. Genty even had a puppet theatre in his studio. Hector Berlioz and his first wife Harriet Smithson also resided on Chemin Saint-Vincent. Smithson’s initial burial in the Saint-Vincent cemetery was later moved. Her remains now rest in the Montmartre cemetery.
The street inspired artists. Aristide Bruant wrote a song “Rue Saint-Vincent” also known as “Rose blanche”. It’s a tragic tale of a young orphaned worker. The song tells the story of her murder. She was killed because she refused forced prostitution. The Chemin Saint-Vincent also features in Jean Renoir’s “La Complainte de la Butte”. It is part of the film French Cancan’s soundtrack.
Chemin Saint-Vincent’s story extends beyond songs. Pierre Mac Orlan’s poetic chronicle “Rue Saint-Vincent” captures his years of poverty in Montmartre. The street’s imagery appears in many works. Paintings sculptures and even medals commemorate its unique character. The street stands as a testament to Montmartre’s vibrant history. It remains a place of artistic inspiration and quiet charm. As you walk Chemin Saint-Vincent let its whispers guide you through time.