Boxwood and remembrance, let’s explore the story of Rue Boissière. This street’s tale begins not with grand buildings. It starts with a simple tradition.
Rue Boissière’s history is intertwined with the Paris Métro. The Boissière station on line 6 serves this area. The station sits at the intersection of Rue Boissière and Avenue Kléber.
But before the metro rumbled beneath, Rue Boissière had humbler origins. Back in 1730, it was a road leading out of the city. It extended from Rue de la Croix-Boissière. The name “street of the wooden cross” came from a unique Palm Sunday custom. People would hang boxwood to remember the crucifixion.
The Boissière station itself opened in 1900. It began as part of line 1. Later, it became part of other lines until finally settling as part of line 6 in 1942. The station’s history mirrors the evolving Paris Métro system.
Close to Rue Boissière once stood the Barrière des Réservoirs. This was a gate for collecting taxes. It was part of the Wall of the Farmers-General. Constructed between 1784 and 1788, it was later demolished in the 19th century.
If you seek access to the metro here, look for the Avenue Kléber entrance. You will find it to the right of number 57. The entrance is adorned with a Guimard design. This is a registered historical monument since 2016.
Inside Boissière station, the layout is typical. Two platforms divide the metro tracks. The vault overhead is elliptical. The decoration follows the standard metro style. White and rounded light canopies brighten the space. Beveled white ceramic tiles line the walls. Metallic advertising frames display their wares. The station’s name appears in Parisine font. Green Motte-style seats offer rest.
If you prefer the bus, lines 22, 30, and 82 serve the station.
Nearby, you can find Square Thomas Jefferson. It offers a green space.
So, as you walk along Rue Boissière, remember its layers. It is a road with religious roots. It is a metro stop. And a location near a former tax gate. Rue Boissière is a small piece of Paris, full of history.