“A street named after a cardinal?” You might ask, as we stand at the beginning of Rue de Cheverus. This street in Paris’s 9th arrondissement has a story to tell. It is a story of faith, urban development, and a lasting tribute.
Rue de Cheverus is a relatively short street. It stretches just 67 meters long and 10 meters wide. The street begins at 8 Place d’Estienne-d’Orves. It ends at 1 Rue de la Trinité. Note how it runs alongside the Église de la Sainte-Trinité.
The street owes its existence to the construction of the Église de la Trinité. The surrounding area was redeveloped in 1860. Rue de Cheverus was officially named in 1864.
The street carries the name of Jean Lefebvre de Cheverus. He lived from 1768 to 1836. Cheverus was the Bishop of Bordeaux. He was also a cardinal-priest of Trinità dei Monti in Rome. The street’s proximity to the Église de la Trinité explains the homage.
The creation of Rue de Cheverus was part of a larger plan. Napoleon III decreed the construction of the church. He also ordered the development of the surrounding area. This included opening four streets around the religious building. Rue de Cheverus was one of them.
The decree outlined the necessity of these changes. It stated the public utility in constructing the church. It also mentioned forming the surrounding areas. This involved opening four streets and creating a square. The decree authorized the city to acquire properties. This was done either amicably or through expropriation.
Today, Rue de Cheverus is easily accessible. The Trinité – d’Estienne d’Orves station on line 12 serves the area. As you walk this short street, remember the cardinal. Remember the urban development that shaped its creation.