Place d’Alleray

Hidden in plain sight, Place d’Alleray whispers stories of a bygone era. Here at Place d’Alleray, time seems to slow down. The square, once a simple “rond-point des Tournelles” in the village of Vaugirard, now holds a special place in the heart of Paris’s 15th arrondissement. Place d’Alleray takes its name from the nearby Rue d’Alleray. This street honors Denis-François Angran d’Alleray, the last lord of Vaugirard. A tragic figure, d’Alleray met his end during the French Revolution. He was condemned for sending money to his exiled children, a testament to a father’s unwavering love. When questioned about his defiance of the law, his poignant reply resonated with both defiance and heartbreak: “No, but I know a more sacred one, it is the one that orders fathers to feed their children.” The Place d’Alleray, nestled between Rue d’Alleray, Rue Dutot, Rue Saint-Amand, Rue Brancion, Rue des Favorites, and Rue Paul-Barruel, is a circular oasis. This circular shape echoes its history as a “rond-point,” a central meeting point for the community. Today, the Place d’Alleray stands as a quiet reminder of Vaugirard’s past. Its transformation reflects the evolution of Paris, absorbing villages and their histories into its vibrant tapestry. Next time you find yourself at Place d’Alleray, take a moment to appreciate its quiet charm and the echoes of history that resonate within this unassuming square.