Jacques-Antoine Dulaure. A name whispered on the winds of history. A name etched onto the Parisian street before us. Rue Dulaure. This seemingly unassuming street in the 20th arrondissement holds a story. It’s a story woven with threads of history, stretching back to a time before the street even existed.
Rue Dulaure wasn’t always here. In its place once stood a formidable bastion. Part of the Thiers wall, bastion number 15 stood as a silent guardian. Then, in 1929, the walls came down. From the remnants of this bastion, Rue Dulaure emerged. It was named after the historian and archaeologist, Jacques-Antoine Dulaure. He was a man who dedicated his life to unearthing the secrets of the past. Now, his name graces this street. A fitting tribute to a man who meticulously documented the history of Paris.
Rue Dulaure begins its journey at 36, Boulevard Mortier, stretching 154 meters to meet 9, Rue Le Vau. It’s a relatively short street, a mere stroll in Parisian terms. Yet within its compact length, it holds the echoes of its namesake’s extensive work. Dulaure’s “Histoire de Paris” is a monumental testament to his passion. It dives deep into the city’s physical, civil, and moral evolution, painting a vivid portrait of Paris through the ages. He explored every nook and cranny, every hidden alley and grand boulevard, every whispered story and historical event.
Imagine Dulaure himself, strolling along this very spot. Perhaps he would pause, observing the comings and goings of Parisian life. He would note the architectural styles, the bustling activity, and the ever-changing face of his beloved city. He might even envision the ghosts of the past. The soldiers who once manned the bastion, the citizens who walked these very grounds before a street even existed.
Rue Dulaure is more than just a street. It is a tangible link to the past. It is a tribute to a man who dedicated his life to preserving the memory of Paris. As you walk along this street, remember the name Jacques-Antoine Dulaure. Remember the bastion that once stood here, and the historian who brought the city’s history to life. Rue Dulaure. A quiet testament to the enduring power of history, nestled within the vibrant heart of Paris.