Is it possible for a street to embody the spirit of a daring corsair? The Rue Duguay-Trouin does just that. This Parisian street in the 6th arrondissement whispers tales of naval battles and daring exploits.
Let’s dive into the story of this 150-meter-long street. Rue Duguay-Trouin is named after René Trouin, also known as Duguay-Trouin. He was a famous French corsair and naval officer. Born in 1673, he rose to become a lieutenant-général des armées navales. Duguay-Trouin died in Paris in 1736. He was buried in the Église Saint-Roch.
Originally, this street was part of the Jardin du Luxembourg. Around 1790, it was opened and named Rue Thimeray. It wasn’t until 1807 that it received its current name. Rue Duguay-Trouin starts at 56 Rue d’Assas. It ends at 19 Rue de Fleurus.
Interestingly, Rue Duguay-Trouin once served a very specific purpose. It provided access to underground quarries. Until around 1810, wooden doors guarded each end of the street. These doors controlled access to the quarries.
After the quarries were abandoned, the area remained sparsely populated. The consolidation of the galleries wasn’t a priority. Consequently, collapses occurred in 1813, 1848, and 1879. Fortunately, these incidents didn’t cause major damage.
Several notable buildings and historical locations line Rue Duguay-Trouin. At number 3, you’ll find the former location of the Dames de Sion community. It is also the national headquarters of the French committee for UNICEF. Additionally, it houses the Conference of Religious Men and Women of France. Number 6 is home to the Assembly of Departments of France.
Victor Hugo once lived near Rue Duguay-Trouin. From 1827 to 1830, he resided in a house at 9 Rue Notre-Dame-des-Champs. The property had a door that opened onto the Luxembourg Gardens. Hugo wrote “Hernani” during his time there.
Today, as you stroll along Rue Duguay-Trouin, imagine the clatter of carts. Think of the shadowy figures entering the quarries. Envision Victor Hugo penning his masterpieces. The street is a reminder of Paris’s layered history. It combines naval heroism, industrial activity, and literary genius. This short street is full of stories waiting to be discovered.