A boulevard named after a revolutionary That’s Boulevard Auguste-Blanqui. It’s a significant artery in Paris’s 13th arrondissement. This wide thoroughfare stretching over 1040 meters links Place d’Italie to Place Denfert-Rochereau. It cuts through the old Bièvre valley.
The boulevard’s name honors Louis Auguste Blanqui a prominent French socialist and revolutionary. Blanqui a fervent republican spent a considerable portion of his life in prison. His unwavering commitment to his ideals shaped his legacy. He was a key figure in multiple uprisings and demonstrations.
Boulevard Auguste-Blanqui stands on the site of the old Farmers-General Wall. Before its demolition in the 1860s roads ran alongside this wall. Before its current name the boulevard had various segments. On the outside it was known as Boulevard d’Italie and Boulevard de la Glacière. The inside portion was called Boulevard des Gobelins and Boulevard Saint-Jacques.
Notice the central reservation. Directly beneath it runs Paris Metro line 6. Near Rue de la Glacière you’ll find a basketball court and a boulodrome a space for playing boules. A memorial to the children of the 13th arrondissement who died for France stands near Place d’Italie.
Number 18 Boulevard Auguste-Blanqui houses the École Estienne a prestigious school for graphic arts. Founded in 1896 it’s named after a famous 16th-century engraving family. Gustav Eiffel’s company even constructed its workshop roof. Number 25 was once the residence of Auguste Blanqui himself. The building proudly displays a plaque marking its historical significance.
Le Monde’s building at number 80 once housed Air France’s headquarters. The building has since been renovated by Bouygues. Further down you’ll find a children’s nursery and a commemorative bust of Ernest Rousselle a dedicated activist for children’s welfare.
Boulevard Auguste-Blanqui isn’t just a road. It’s a living testament to Paris’s rich history and revolutionary spirit. It weaves together past and present. It connects the echoes of Blanqui’s struggles with the vibrant life of modern Paris.