Isn’t it remarkable how these little green structures have become synonymous with the Parisian streetscape? This is a Kiosque, a newspaper stand. It is more than just a place to buy your daily news. The Kiosque is a symbol of Parisian culture.
These Kiosques have a history stretching back to the mid-19th century. Baron Haussmann, the urban planner, commissioned them. He wanted to create a unified look for the city. The Kiosques were part of this vision. They shared the same dark green color and ornate style as other street furniture like benches and lampposts.
French architect Gabriel Davioud designed the original Kiosques in 1857. He collaborated with Haussmann on many projects, including the Parc Monceau entrance and the Saint-Michel fountain. The first Kiosque was small. It opened on the Grands Boulevards.
The Kiosques you see today are not the originals. They are imitations from the 1980s. The originals are long gone. These newer Kiosques are rectangular cabins made of plastic. They have a 19th-century-style dome on top. They were designed to blend in with the Haussmannian style of the city.
The City of Paris decided to replace the 1980s Kiosques with a more practical design. The first new Kiosque opened in 2018. It featured recycled glass and aluminum. The pointed dome was gone. Some people call the new design a “sardine can”.
But don’t worry, some of the old Kiosques will remain. The city will keep 39 of them. They will be renovated and kept in touristy areas. This ensures visitors can still enjoy their photogenic charm.
Kiosques are more than just newsstands. They are part of daily life for Parisians and tourists. Some Kiosques sell theatre and concert tickets. These are called “Le kiosque théâtre”. They have the same shape as the news Kiosques.
A unique law in France requires all newspaper Kiosques to carry all newspaper titles. This means you can see headlines from across the political spectrum. The Kiosque cannot choose to only sell certain types of news.
The Kiosque offers a balanced view of information. It is a valuable resource for a well-informed society. The news vendors, or “kiosquier”, are important figures. They provide impartial news to their customers.
The City of Paris is working to modernize the Kiosques. They may soon offer tourist information, postal services, and local products. This will help the Kiosques adapt to the changing times.
So next time you see a Kiosque, take a moment to appreciate its history. Buy a newspaper or magazine. You will also support a Parisian tradition. You might even find a small souvenir at a good price.