What’s in a name? The Route de l’Étoile, tucked away in the heart of Paris, offers a glimpse into the city’s captivating past. This charming street, whose name translates to “Star Road”, might seem unassuming at first glance. But don’t let that fool you. The Route de l’Étoile whispers tales of a time when this neighborhood echoed with the clatter of carriages and the bustle of Parisian life.
This street earned its name from its close proximity to the grand Place de l’Étoile, more commonly known today as the Place Charles de Gaulle. Imagine, if you will, the Route de l’Étoile in its heyday, around the mid-19th century. This street wasn’t just a thoroughfare. It was a hub for skilled artisans. Sellers showcasing their finely crafted saddles and carriage makers putting the finishing touches on their elegant vehicles. As the automobile industry began its rise, the street adapted, becoming home to subcontractors for the many car manufacturers springing up across the city. Over time, the Route de l’Étoile’s character shifted. It gained a somewhat colorful reputation for its salons de massage, nightclubs, and fortune tellers. This eclectic mix of businesses only adds to the street’s unique charm, a testament to its ever-evolving story.
Today, as you stroll down the Route de l’Étoile, take a moment to appreciate the remnants of its past. Look for the charming facade of the old bakery at number 19, now a restaurant but still retaining a whisper of its former life. At number 21, you’ll find the entrance to the 17th arrondissement’s crèche, its chalet-like design a whimsical touch from 1897. The Route de l’Étoile may not be as star-studded as its grand neighbor. But its story, woven from the threads of history and urban transformation, is no less fascinating. It’s a reminder that even in a city as grand as Paris, sometimes the most captivating stories are told in the quiet corners, whispered by the stones and echoed in the names.