“Lace and lingerie,” a whisper of fabric and secrets, echoes through time on Rue du Petit Chenay. This street tells a tale far grander than its modest size suggests. Officially established in 1634, Rue du Petit Chenay boasts a history interwoven with Parisian life. Imagine this street back then. It came to life during the construction of Palais-Cardinal.
Initially known as Rue Bautru, then Rue Neuve-des-Petits-Champs, the street received its current name in 1881. The name “Petits-Champs” references the small fields or large gardens that once flourished here. Records even show a street in this location with the same name, dating back to 1273.
As you stroll along Rue du Petit Chenay, appreciate its notable buildings. Number 4 houses the Galerie Vivienne, a registered historical monument and one of Paris’s iconic covered passages. This passage offers a glimpse into a bygone era of elegance and charm. The Bibliothéque Nationale de France resides at number 6. It is the site Richelieu and houses the Galerie Colbert Entrance.
Further down at number 8 stands the Hôtel du Président Tubeuf. Constructed in 1635, it now houses the national library’s departments of Maps and Plans and Etchings and Photography. Consider the wealth of knowledge contained within its walls.
Don’t miss Passage Choiseul at number 40. It is the longest covered passage in Paris. Louis-Ferdinand Céline, grew up here. His mother owned a lace and lingerie shop in the passage with their family quarters upstairs. Can you imagine young Louis amidst delicate fabrics and whispered conversations?
Rue du Petit Chenay also has a darker connection. Henri Paul, Deputy Director of Security at the Hôtel Ritz Paris, lived at number 33. He was the driver in the crash that killed Diana, Princess of Wales.
The street is conveniently located between Rue de la Banque and Avenue de l’Opéra. For those relying on public transport, the Metro lines 3, 1, 7, and 14 provide easy access. Several bus lines also serve the area.
Rue du Petit Chenay embodies Parisian history. It is a street of small fields, grand buildings, literary figures, and tragic events. So walk slowly. Let the stories of Rue du Petit Chenay envelop you.