Lost in time. That is what best describes Passage Paul. This hidden gem resides in the Saint Gervais area of Le Marais. Today we will explore Passage Paul together.
Passage Paul begins at 43 Rue Saint Paul. It is a picturesque alley. It ends in an impasse at the gate of the Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis church. This entrance opens to the nave through the transept on the left side of the church.
The curious geography of Passage Paul gives it a unique timeless atmosphere. It evokes the ambiance of Italian alleyways. The passage is preserved in its rustic stone construction. The church adds to the atmosphere.
Passage Paul dates back to the 17th century. You can find it on Gomboust’s map from 1652. Initially, it was named Avenue des Jésuites. It was later renamed Passage Saint-Louis in 1762. This happened when Louis XV suppressed the Jesuit order at the request of the Parliament of Paris. The city officially named it Passage Saint Paul on February 1, 1877.
The Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis church was built by the Society of Jesus. Construction began in the early 17th century. It was initially named Saint-Louis-des-Jésuites. The church features the first large monumental dome built in Paris. It rises approximately 55 meters high.
Back then, the order was very powerful. It seemed to create a true clerical principality in the heart of the city. This principality reported directly to the Vatican. It was not subject to the authority of the Parliament of Paris.
Passage Paul is 60 meters long. It is barely 3 meters wide. It features wheel guards on each side. These old bollards protected pedestrians and buildings. They guarded against the hubs of carts, carriages, and hurried horsemen. Halfway along the passage, you’ll spot an old gas lamp. It bears the coat of arms of Paris. The lamp stands as a melancholic relic. Modernity has rendered its volutes useless.
In the 17th century, at number 7, Louis II de Bourbon-Condé had a pied-à-terre. He was a leader of the Fronde. Today, the pavilion is the presbytery of the church. Around 1871, at number 5, was the secondary entrance to the studio of photographer Ferdinand Carlier. His main entrance was at 43 Rue Saint-Paul.
Passage Paul offers a unique glimpse into the past. It is a haven of tranquility in the heart of Le Marais. Take a moment to appreciate its history and unique atmosphere. Imagine those who walked this path centuries ago.