“Did anyone lose their carriage keys?” Passage aux Cerfs has witnessed its fair share of comings and goings. This charming covered passage in Paris has a unique story to tell. It all began in 1825. Passage aux Cerfs was built on the site of the Grand-Cerf coaching inn. This inn was a bustling hub before the French Revolution. It housed the Royal Messageries, a network of stagecoaches that traversed the country. The passage, with its high glass ceilings and elegant design, was originally a place for production and craftsmanship, not just luxury shopping. Imagine the sounds of blacksmiths, weavers, and carpenters echoing through the passage. A rather dark chapter unfolded in Passage aux Cerfs during the 1827 uprisings in Paris. Insurgents, seeking refuge within the passage’s confines, met a tragic end as soldiers stormed in. The passage floor ran red with blood, a grim reminder of the city’s turbulent past. Despite its tumultuous beginnings, Passage aux Cerfs underwent a revival. Today, it’s home to a delightful mix of boutiques, artisan shops, and restaurants. As you explore this hidden gem, remember its layered history – from stagecoaches to bloodshed and its vibrant present.
Église Notre-Dame de l’Air
Beneath what appears to be a simple stone and wood structure lies a history interwoven with faith aviation and community.