“Fishmongers Gate?” a child asks. The Porte des Poissonniers stands before us. It is a place where history whispers and modern life bustles. This gate is more than just a point on a map. It’s a testament to Paris’s evolving story.
The Porte des Poissonniers is in the 18th arrondissement. It marks a spot where the Boulevard Ney meets the Rue des Poissonniers. You will find it nestled between Porte de Clignancourt and Porte de la Chapelle. It offers a unique passage between Paris and Saint-Ouen. This is easily accessible by foot or bicycle.
The name “Porte des Poissonniers” has an interesting origin. It echoes the old Porte des Poissonniers of the Thiers wall. This gate got its name from the “chemin des Poissonniers.” This path was used to bring seafood from northern France. The seafood arrived at the port of Saint-Denis. Today, parts of this historic route are still visible.
The Avenue de la Porte-des-Poissonniers owes its name to this gate. It stretches from Boulevard Ney. It ends at the intersection of Rue du Professeur-Gosset and Rue des Poissonniers in Saint-Ouen. This avenue lies partly on the old Thiers wall. It connects to the historic fishmongers’ path.
The Porte des Poissonniers area has seen changes over time. It sits alongside railway lines connected to Gare du Nord. Close by is a military barracks. You’ll also find the RATP Championnet workshops and the Belliard bus center.
The area around Porte des Poissonniers has faced challenges. Occasionally, informal settlements emerge. These appear on the Petite Ceinture or under the boulevard périphérique bridge.
Today, the Porte des Poissonniers is served by tram line 3b. The station is named Diane Arbus. Before the tram, a trench allowed Boulevard Ney to pass under Rue des Poissonniers. This had two lanes in each direction.
A modern development project has transformed the area. It includes student residences and housing. You’ll also find an industrial hotel and rental apartments. There are owner-occupied homes and a service residence. Shops occupy the ground floors of three buildings. A nursery for the city of Paris offers sixty spots.
The Porte des Poissonniers is a place of constant motion. People pass through. They connect to different parts of the city and beyond. The gate reminds us of the historical routes that shaped Paris. It highlights the city’s ongoing evolution.