“Passage Planchard. Ever heard of it?” I ask. This little-known passage in the 20th arrondissement of Paris is something of a mystery. Passage Planchard is located in the 20th arrondissement. It begins at 18 bis, rue Saint-Fargeau. It ends as a dead end. The passage is 167 meters long. It is four meters wide.
The origin of the name Passage Planchard seems unknown. It is not indicated in any of the consulted works. The passage is connected to the public sanitation system.
Now, I know what you are thinking. What makes Passage Planchard special? Well, it is its obscurity. Unlike the grand covered passages of Paris, Passage Planchard is more of a hidden secret. It is not filled with boutiques or cafes. It does not have a fancy glass roof. Passage Planchard offers a glimpse into a quieter side of Paris.
Imagine walking along Rue Saint-Fargeau. You might easily miss the entrance to Passage Planchard. It is unassuming, blending into the surrounding buildings. But as you step inside, you leave behind the hustle. You will enter a calm space. The passage is narrow, just four meters wide. The buildings rise on either side creating a sense of enclosure.
The passage is 167 meters long. The passage stretches ahead like a secret corridor. The sunlight filters through the opening creating a soft light. You may hear the echoes of your footsteps. They bounce off the walls.
As you walk, notice the details around you. The architecture is simple and functional. The buildings are old, showing signs of age and history. Look closely and you might see interesting details. A faded sign, an ornate window, or a climbing vine. These small touches add to the character of the Passage Planchard.
At the end of Passage Planchard, the passage ends in a dead end. You have to turn around and retrace your steps. This only adds to the feeling of seclusion. Passage Planchard is a place to escape and reflect.
Passage Planchard may not be famous. It may not be on any must-see lists. But it offers something rare and valuable. A moment of peace in a busy city. So next time you are in Paris, take a detour and explore Passage Planchard. You might be surprised by what you discover.