Does this narrow passage hide a secret? This is the Cour de l’Etoile d’Or. It is a protected courtyard in the Sainte-Marguerite district. Let’s explore its history and discover its hidden gems.
The Cour de l’Etoile d’Or consists of two interconnected courtyards. They stretch 80 meters long and 3.6 meters wide. Historic buildings surround them. Construction began around 1640. It started with a pleasure house and gradually evolved. By the 19th century it transitioned into industrial workshops.
The Cour de l’Etoile d’Or is a testament to French craftsmanship. A wooden staircase ramp stands as a historic monument. It was listed in 1928. This staircase reflects the architectural elements of the 17th century.
Enter the Cour de l’Etoile d’Or at 75 rue du Faubourg-Saint-Antoine. It is fifty meters east of rue de Charonne. The courtyard’s renovation in 1998 brought a new name. Architect Didier Drummond renamed the second courtyard. It became known as “Cour des Shadoks”. This was in homage to Jacques Rouxel. He created the television series “Les Shadoks”.
The Cour de l’Etoile d’Or derives its name from a prominent sign. It marked a business located within. This space evolved over centuries. Initially, a house with a courtyard and garden stood here. By the 17th century, artisans moved in. They worked in furniture making. This mirrored a broader trend in the Faubourg Saint-Antoine.
In the 18th century the owner expanded the Cour de l’Etoile d’Or. They replaced part of the garden with a second courtyard. This accommodated professional activities. The 19th century saw further changes. Workshops and industrial buildings replaced the garden entirely.
The first courtyard features a townhouse. It boasts a sundial from the 18th century. Inside, a wooden staircase is adorned with figures. They symbolize the four seasons. On the right, an ochre-colored house stands out. It showcases Empire-era design. Next to it, an architect’s house integrates into the courtyard. It has a sober metal facade.
The second courtyard once housed workshops. Artisans worked with wood here. It retains its charm. There are old glazed workshops from the early 19th century. Also visible are old wood hangars. A large brick and stone workshop dates to 1882.
The Cour de l’Etoile d’Or is a true gem. A narrow passage leads to two successive courtyards. Four centuries of architecture are present here. This hidden space provides a glimpse into the past. It showcases the evolution of Parisian craftsmanship. The Cour de l’Etoile d’Or is a reminder of the city’s rich history.