“Three pavilions once stood proudly here” said a voice. That’s how the Rue des Trois Pavillons got its name. I am happy to share its story with you. This street whispers tales of Parisian history.
The Rue des Trois Pavillons was once a simple path. It cut through the Sainte-Catherine land. Back in 1545 it was named Rue de la Culture-Sainte-Catherine. It stretched from Rue des Francs-Bourgeois to Rue des Juifs. That section was then known as Rue des Valets. That part disappeared around 1604.
For a time in the mid-16th century this street bore another name. It was called Rue de Diane. This was in honor of Diane de Poitiers. She was the Duchess of Valentinois. More importantly she was King Henri II’s mistress.
Diane was quite the woman. According to Brantôme she had striking features. Her hair was extremely dark and curly. Her skin was very white. She possessed admirable teeth hands and legs. Her posture was noble. Saint-Foix reported that she was never sick. Even in the coldest weather she washed her face with well water. She never used any creams. Diane would wake up at six every morning. She would ride a horse for one or two leagues. Then she would return to bed to read until noon.
Legend says that Henri II wanted to acknowledge a daughter he had with Diane. She retorted “I was of birth to have legitimate children by you. I was your mistress because I loved you. I will not suffer a decree to declare me your concubine”. Courtiers adored her but quickly turned their backs when Henri II was near death. Catherine de Médicis ordered her to return the crown jewels. She was told to retire to one of her castles.
Diane asked if the king was dead. She was told that he would not last the day. Diane replied “I do not yet have a master. I want my enemies to know that I do not fear them. If I have the misfortune to outlive the king my heart will be too occupied with its sorrow”. Diane de Valentinois died on April 20 1566. She was 66 years old. In her will she requested her body be displayed in the church of the Filles-Pénitentes.
But the people forgot the beautiful duchess. The Rue de Diane was soon known by another name. It became the Rue des Trois-Pavillons. This name came from a house. This house stood at the corner of this street and Rue des Francs-Bourgeois. What made it special? It had three prominent pavilions.
A ministerial decision in the year VII set the street’s width. That’s about 1799 during the French Revolution. Quinette signed the order. The width was fixed at 8 meters. A royal order on July 12 1837 increased it to 10 meters.
You might notice the mix of old and new. Some buildings align perfectly. Others sit back slightly from the street. This is due to various alignment adjustments over the years.
Today the Rue des Trois Pavillons blends into the Marais district. It is a reminder of the area’s rich history. It is a story of powerful women architectural quirks and constant change. Take a moment to appreciate the layers of history beneath your feet. The Rue des Trois Pavillons is a small street with a large story.