Ever wonder where Rue de la Bonne got its charming name? It hints at a tale of pure water and simpler times. Let’s step back and explore this unique street in Paris’s 18th arrondissement.
Rue de la Bonne stretches 170 meters. It is a public road in the 18th arrondissement. The street starts at 30, rue du Chevalier-de-La-Barre. It ends at 7, rue Becquerel and 23, rue Lamarck.
Once, a famous fountain stood near here. Locals called it “Bonne Eau,” “Bonne Fontaine,” or “Bonne Fée”. All these names translate to “Good Water,” “Good Fountain,” or “Good Fairy.” Imagine villagers gathering. They chat as they collect fresh spring water. The fountain likely stood at the top of the street near rue Saint-Vincent. Sadly, this vital water source vanished around 1850.
Rue de la Bonne follows an old path. This path connected Montmartre’s summit to Chaussée Clignancourt. That is now Rue Ramey. This route existed from the late 14th to the 18th century. Back then, this area was part of the commune of Montmartre.
Look up the street. See how it climbs? Like many streets in Montmartre, Rue de la Bonne has a steep slope. Part of it is even a staircase.
Notice Marcel Bleustein-Blanchet Square. It borders the upper part of Rue de la Bonne. On the other side, a tall, blank wall rises. This wall hides the Carmel of Montmartre. This adds a sense of mystery to the street.
Rue de la Bonne is part of Vieux Montmartre. This designation protects the area’s historical character. Imagine this street in 1871. A piece of artillery sits at the corner of Rue des Rosiers. Barricades block the road showing a turbulent past.
The street became an official Parisian road by decree. Part of Rue de la Bonne disappeared. Rue Lamarck absorbed it between Rue Becquerel and Rue du Mont-Cenis.
So next time you stroll along Rue de la Bonne, remember its story. It is a story of water, history, and the changing landscape of Montmartre. It is more than just a street. It is a journey through time.