“Siam,” a whisper from centuries past echoes here in Paris at Impasse des Siams. This name, seemingly out of place, holds a story. It is a tale of diplomacy and distant lands. This small dead end street is probably named in memory of the former name of Thailand.
Let’s journey back in time. Picture the late 17th century. King Louis XIV reigns supreme in France. Siam, as Thailand was then known, sought relations with the Sun King. The Siamese King dispatched ambassadors to the French court.
In 1686, three ambassadors led by Kosa Pan arrived in France. They sought to meet Louis XIV in Versailles. Their arrival was a momentous occasion. The ambassadors brought six mandarins. They also brought three translators, two secretaries and a large retinue of servants. They were loaded down with presents for the French King.
Their arrival in France caused a stir. People were amazed by these exotic visitors from a faraway land. The Siamese delegation left a lasting impression. France and Siam established relations.
Though Impasse des Siams is in Le Perreux-sur-Marne, near Paris and not in Brest, another city in France also carries this memory. In Brest, the main street is named Rue de Siam. This commemorates the arrival of the Siamese ambassadors in 1686. Similarly, in Bangkok, a street was named Rue de Brest. This reciprocated the French honor. It celebrated the diplomatic ties between the two countries.
Names connect us to history. They remind us of events and encounters that shaped the world. As you stand here on Impasse des Siams remember this. Recall the story of the Siamese ambassadors. Consider their journey to France. Appreciate the cultural exchange that took place so long ago. Even a small street can whisper big stories.