Have you ever wondered why a street is named after a geographer? Rue Cortambert, in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, is named in honor of Eugène Cortambert, a prominent French geographer who lived from 1805 to 1881. This charming street is a haven of tranquility that hides a rich history. Imagine strolling along its sidewalks, the gentle murmur of Parisian life swirling around you.
The street was not always Rue Cortambert. Its roots stretch back to the humble “chemin des Bornes”, a path that marked the boundaries of the Bonshommes de Chaillot convent. This convent, now gone, once stood on the high ground overlooking Paris and hosted a range of religious activities.
Over time, the quiet chemin was transformed into a street. It was divided into three sections, each with its own name. The section nearest the Place Possoz was called “rue Saint-Hippolyte” because it was originally part of the grounds of the Saint-Hippolyte Church. The “rue des Sablons”, or “Sand Street”, held a less glamorous history. It got its name from the sandpits where the locals extracted building materials.
But the most intriguing section is the one that bears the name of Eugène Cortambert. It was once a smaller, unassuming street, but its character was about to change. The street’s destiny was sealed in the late 19th century. It was this time that the entire area underwent a massive transformation, giving birth to the 16th arrondissement as we know it today.
The street was built with grandeur in mind. It was lined with elegant buildings and luxurious residences, attracting a colorful cast of characters. One of them was the American author Julien Green, who lived at number 16. He described the street as “having the charm of a provincial street” in his book “Jeunes Années”. This comment evokes the peaceful, timeless quality that still permeates the street today.
Today, you can stroll down Rue Cortambert and feel the ghosts of its past. You can still find a fascinating blend of historical buildings and modern amenities. You can see the imposing edifice of the Temple protestant de l’Annonciation, a neo-Romanesque building that dates back to 1891, a testament to the street’s enduring faith. You can also admire the magnificent neo-Gothic architecture of the chapel Notre-Dame-du-Saint-Sacrement, built in 1900, a sanctuary for the faithful.
Rue Cortambert has witnessed the ebb and flow of Parisian life, from its humble beginnings as a “chemin” to its transformation into a fashionable address. It has seen kings and queens, poets and artists, all contributing to its unique tapestry.
If you find yourself exploring the 16th arrondissement, take some time to walk down Rue Cortambert. Let your imagination wander as you absorb the echoes of history that pulse through its streets. And don’t forget to raise your gaze towards the sky. While the street may have been named after a geographer, it was surely the stars that inspired its elegant design.