“A street in Saint-Denis?” someone asks surprised. Yes, we are standing at Rue de la Vieille Mer. This street holds more than meets the eye. It is a place of history and perhaps secrets.
Rue de la Vieille Mer is more than just a street. It is a journey through time. Let’s explore its story.
The road dates back to 1250. It once led from the north to the gardens of the Knights Templar fort. This fort included a tower inside the Philippe-August wall. Later, the Charles V wall was built. Both parts of the road became the Old Temple Road.
During the worker’s insurrection of June 1848, the road was barricaded. Its exact location during this event remains unknown today. Imagine the turmoil and the fight for change right here on Rue de la Vieille Mer.
At number 87, the National Printworks played a significant role. On December 2, 1851, the army forced workers to print a poster. This poster announced the dissolution of the National Assembly during Louis-Napoleon’s Coup d’État.
The tables turned on March 18, 1871. The 86th battalion of the National Guard seized the National Printworks. They defended the Paris Commune. Louis Debock, a typesetter, took over the directorship at number 87.
Number 131 also has a story. The Worker Albert was arrested at his home here in January 1841. Police were investigating the assassination attempt on Louis-Philippe. They found communist pamphlets. Albert was jailed for a month for belonging to a Communist club.
Rue de la Vieille Mer tells tales of political upheaval. It whispers stories of those who fought for their beliefs. Imagine the secret meetings. Picture the printing presses churning out revolutionary pamphlets.
Another fascinating piece of Parisian history links back to a treasure. Not far from here, the Treasure of rue Vieille-du-Temple was discovered in 1882. Workers demolishing a building found a copper container. Inside were 7,822 gold coins dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries.
The coins included those of John the Good and Charles V. The treasure might be linked to the Maillotins revolt in 1382. Wealthy people may have hidden their coins before being arrested. The street where the treasure was found is now called “rue du Trésor”.
Rue de la Vieille Mer is a place where history comes alive. From knights to revolutions to hidden treasures, its story is rich. Take a moment to appreciate the past as you walk along this street.