Why does this short street carry such a resonant name Rue Elisabeth? It is a slice of Parisian history. Rue Elisabeth is found in the 3rd arrondissement of Paris. It is a small street with a length of just 70 meters.
Rue Sainte Elisabeth owes its name to the proximity of the old convent of the Filles de Sainte Elisabeth. The street’s story is entwined with religious history. It was opened in 1807 between the Madelonnettes convent and the Filles de Nazareth convent.
Rue Elisabeth lost its northern half in 1858. This happened during the opening of Rue de Turbigo. The street has seen significant changes over time. Originally it connected two convents. It now stands as a small reminder of that history.
The Germain Pilon school opened on Rue Elisabeth in 1882. It was later moved to 11 Rue Dupetit Thouars in 1923. The school’s presence added an educational aspect to the street’s character.
Rue Elisabeth began at 8 Rue des Fontaines du Temple. It ends at 70-70 bis Rue de Turbigo. Its width is approximately 10 meters. This gives it a cozy intimate feel.
In 2016 Cardinal Andrè Vingt-Trois reactivated the cause of Princess Elisabeth’s beatification. This adds another layer to the street’s namesake. Xavier Snoëk was appointed postulator for the cause. The church is located in the former Temple district. The district is where the princess was imprisoned. In May 2017 the association recognized faithful promoters of her cause.
Rue Elisabeth is more than just a street. It is a convergence of religious history and education. It evokes the memory of convents. Its existence highlights changes in Parisian urban development. This little street offers us a glimpse into the city’s layered past.