“Only one meter wide at its narrowest point!” the tour guide exclaimed, his voice echoing slightly in the confined space. He gestured towards the narrow passage ahead. “Welcome to the Route des Merisiers, folks! Believe it or not, this charming little pathway holds the record for being one of the narrowest streets in Paris.” The Route des Merisiers, tucked away in the 12th arrondissement, is a far cry from the grand boulevards and bustling avenues that typically come to mind when one thinks of Paris. This hidden gem, with its quaint houses and lush gardens peeking out from behind walls, feels like a secret, a forgotten corner of the city frozen in time. Now officially recognized as a Paris street since 1863, the Route des Merisiers has thankfully escaped the clutches of overzealous developers, retaining its village-like charm. The origins of its name are debated: some say it comes from wild cherry trees – “merisiers” in French – that once lined the path. Others believe it’s a nod to “Les Mézières,” a locality mentioned in maps from the mid-1800s. This narrow passage has captivated the hearts of writers too! It’s found its way into the pages of “Dora Bruder” by Patrick Modiano and “Boulevards des Maréchaux” by Denis Tillinac, forever cementing its place in Parisian literary history. The Route des Merisiers is a testament to Paris’s ability to surprise and enchant, even in its quietest corners.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to