“Did you ever imagine a street named after a German cardinal in the heart of Paris?” Right here, in front of us, lies Rue de Furstemberg. This street, my friends, is a hidden gem, a small, charming street tucked away in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district. Rue de Furstemberg got its unusual name from Cardinal Wilhelm-Egon de Fürstenberg. He was appointed abbot of the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés in 1697. This street was actually part of the abbey’s grounds. It was built around 1699, creating a grand approach to the Abbatial Palace. Today, Rue de Furstemberg is a peaceful escape from the bustling city. It’s a place frozen in time. It’s famous for its charming square, often mistakenly called Place de Furstemberg. This square is a photographer’s paradise with its central lamppost surrounded by four paulownia trees. The ambiance here is simply magical, especially at nightfall when the lights cast an enchanting glow. Adding to the street’s allure is the Musée national Eugène-Delacroix, located at number 6. The renowned Romantic artist, Eugène Delacroix, chose this very spot as his residence and studio from 1857 until his death in 1863. He was drawn to the area because he was commissioned to decorate the nearby Eglise Saint-Sulpice. Today, the museum offers a glimpse into Delacroix’s life and work, preserving his legacy in the heart of Rue de Furstemberg. So, as you wander down this enchanting street, remember the German cardinal whose name it bears and the renowned artist who found inspiration within its walls. Rue de Furstemberg is a testament to the intertwining threads of history and art that make Paris eternally captivating.
Église Notre-Dame de l’Air
Beneath what appears to be a simple stone and wood structure lies a history interwoven with faith aviation and community.