Turenne’s tale is etched in the very stones beneath our feet. Welcome to Rue de Turenne. This isn’t just another street in Paris. It’s a journey through time.
Rue de Turenne resides in the heart of the Marais. It snakes through both the 3rd and 4th arrondissements. This location places us in the center of Parisian history.
Did you know Rue de Turenne stretches over a kilometer? This long street connects Rue Saint-Antoine to Rue Charlot. Imagine the countless stories these streets hold. The street got its name from Henri de La Tour d’Auvergne. He was the Vicomte de Turenne and a famous marshal. He even had his own hôtel on this very street. It stood where numbers 66 and 70 are today.
Let’s step back in time. Rue de Turenne wasn’t always here. It was built over a sewer. King Charles VI ordered the sewer built in 1412. He was bothered by the smells from the Pont Perrin sewer. This original sewer ran north of Rue de Turenne. It stretched to what is now Rue Béranger. The first covered section was near Rue Saint-Antoine. This happened in the early 17th century.
Rue de Turenne has had many names. It was once Ruelle des Égouts then Rue des Égouts. Later it became Rue de l’Égout Sainte-Catherine. Each name reflects its humble beginnings.
In the 17th century, Place Royale now Place des Vosges was built. This led to more development. The section of Rue de Turenne near Rue Saint-Gilles dates back to this time. The street was once called Rue Saint-Louis-au-Marais.
Look around you at the doorways. Rue de Turenne boasts some of the most magnificent doorways in Paris. Each door whispers tales of the past.
Notice the building at number 34. This was once the home of Libéral Bruand. He was an architect for King Louis XIV. Bruand designed the Hôtel des Invalides.
Take a closer look at numbers 37 and 39. Honoré de Balzac studied here for a year. This was in the Lepitre boarding house.
Don’t miss the Fontaine de Joyeuse at number 41. It replaced an older fountain from 1671. The current fountain dates back to 1847.
At numbers 52-54, you’ll find the Hôtel de Montrésor. It’s a double hôtel with a fascinating history. Today, it houses schools.
The Hôtel de Pologne stands at number 65. It features beautiful ironwork and a grand staircase.
At the corner of Rue de Turenne and Rue Villehardouin, spot the statue of the Virgin. This statue has been restored. It’s a reminder of the street’s enduring history.
The Église Saint-Denys-du-Saint-Sacrement is at number 70. This church is known for its neoclassical style. Inside, you can find a painting by Delacroix.
Pause for a moment at numbers 80-80 bis. Here stands the Hôtel de Voysin. It has passed through many hands over the centuries.
Finally, consider the words etched above the mascaron of the fountain between Rue de Turenne and Rue Charlot. They thank King Louis XIV for peace in the Netherlands.
Rue de Turenne isn’t just a street. It’s a living testament to Paris’s rich past. Each building and each stone has a story to tell. As we continue our tour, remember the echoes of history that surround us. They whisper secrets of kings artists and revolutionaries. They remind us that Paris is more than just a city. It’s a story that never ends.