Rue du Colonel Driant

Picture yourself on Rue du Colonel Driant. A Parisian lane nestled in the heart of the 1st arrondissement, it lies just a stone’s throw from iconic sights like the Louvre. Take a step back in time to the 16th of December, 1915. That was the day this street was declared of public interest. Its namesake, Colonel Emile Driant (1855-1916) a brave soldier and a man of great stature. He was a decorated hero of the Franco-Prussian War and a prominent figure in the French Army during World War I. Driant’s courage, bravery, and determination inspire many to this day. The street, however, began its life as a connection between Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Rue Croix-des-Petits-Champs. It wasn’t until 1928 that the street was extended westwards to Rue de Valois, and on February 4, 1926, it was named after Colonel Driant. Today, Rue du Colonel Driant is a quiet street. It houses a variety of shops and restaurants. The building right before you, at 1-3, was constructed in 1954 by the architect Emile Molinié. Imagine, at almost 87 years old he created a magnificent building. So, as you walk along this calm and elegant little street, you cannot help but feel the spirit of the man it bears. Think of Colonel Driant and his legacy as you pass by, remembering the history and stories that are interwoven into the fabric of this charming Parisian lane.