“A tribute to a celebrated lawyer,” that’s what Rue Henri-Robert quietly proclaims. This street sits on the Île de la Cité in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. It is named for Henri-Robert. He was a renowned lawyer who lived from 1863 to 1936.
Rue Henri-Robert wasn’t always its own street. Until 1948, it was a part of Place Dauphine. Imagine Place Dauphine. Then picture a small section being renamed to honor Henri-Robert. That’s the story of this street’s origin.
This is a very short street. It measures a mere 19 meters in length. It’s about 12 meters wide. Rue Henri-Robert connects Place Dauphine and Place du Pont-Neuf.
Look for number 28. This building was once part of Place Dauphine. A plaque marks it as the former home of André Antoine. He was a comedian. He created the Théâtre-Libre. Antoine lived here from 1912 to 1934.
While not directly on Rue Henri-Robert, the nearby Avenue Henri-Martin offers another glimpse into Parisian history. Avenue Henri-Martin is much longer at 663 meters. It’s named after historian Henri Martin. He was once the mayor of the 16th arrondissement. Avenue Henri-Martin was part of a large redevelopment. Baron Haussmann planned this redevelopment. Avenue Henri-Martin once included Avenue Georges-Mandel. The change happened in 1945. This honored Georges Mandel. He was murdered in World War II.
Rue Henri-Robert offers a quiet moment. It is nestled amid the city’s hustle. It connects to the stories of law, theater, and Parisian history. As you walk its short length remember Henri-Robert. Remember André Antoine. Think about the layers of Paris. Each street holds a story.