“Rosebushes Street”. That’s the charming meaning behind Rue des Rosiers. This street sits in the heart of Paris’s historic Marais district. The Rue des Rosiers dates back to the late 12th century. It replaced a path inside a rampart built by King Philip-Augustus.
Historical texts say rosebushes adorned this section of the rampart. Hence the street’s romantic name. You can still admire a restored tower from this rampart. Find it in the Jardin Rosiers Joseph Migneret. This garden is accessible from number 10 Rue des Rosiers.
The current layout of Rue des Rosiers dates back to the mid-19th century. An old cul-de-sac was opened up. This enhanced the street’s connectivity.
Rue des Rosiers lies at the center of the Jewish quarter. It is unofficially called “the Pletzl”. This is Yiddish for “little place”. Shopping hours are restricted in Paris. However, Rue des Rosiers received an exception. This is because Saturday is the Jewish Sabbath. Cafés and shops are open on Sundays and holidays. This attracts large crowds.
The Jewish community in Paris settled in the Marais in the late 12th century. Between 1881 and 1914 about 20000 Jews settled here. They were fleeing persecution in Central Europe. The street became a haven.
Walk along the Rue des Rosiers to discover Jewish culture. You’ll see signs in Hebrew and falafel restaurants. Kosher food stores and Jewish bookshops also line the street. Many traditional boutiques have given way to fashion shops since the 1970s.
Rue des Rosiers is a very old street lined with old houses. This is visible near the Rue Vieille-du-Temple. The street was created in the 13th century. It ran along Philip-Augustus’s wall.
In more recent history, Rue des Rosiers saw tragedy. In 1982, the Goldenberg restaurant was attacked. The shooting resulted in deaths and injuries. Bullet holes remained visible for years. The restaurant was later sold and converted into a clothing store.
You’ll find the Hammam Sauna Saint-Paul at number 4. It dates back to 1863. The building’s pinkish facade stands out.
A vocational school once stood next to number 4bis. It educated apprentices. A plaque honors those who perished in concentration camps.
At number 23, admire the restored facade of an 18th-century mansion. Near the corner of Rue Ferdinand-Duval find a Jewish bookshop.
The street was once named Rue des Juifs. That was from 1500 to 1900. Ancient houses line the street.
You’ll find a modest synagogue at number 17. However, the grander Synagogue Guimard is nearby. It strikes with its unique architecture.
Rue des Rosiers is near the Saint-Paul metro station. The 380-meter-long street is a main thoroughfare. The street of rosebushes offers a glimpse into Parisian life. It is a place where history and culture intertwine.