“Ever wonder who decides what a street is called?” asks a nearby tour guide. Here on Rue Maleville, we find ourselves on a street with a story. Rue Maleville is located in Paris’s 8th arrondissement. This street is not just a path. It is a tribute to a man who helped shape modern law.
Rue Maleville owes its name to Jacques de Maleville. He was a French politician and jurist. Born in 1741, he left a lasting impact on French law. Most notably, Maleville was one of the four drafters of the Civil Code.
This code reshaped the French legal system. It influenced legal systems worldwide. Maleville’s contribution ensured clarity and structure. His work is still relevant today.
The street itself is relatively short. It stretches just 103 meters. Rue Maleville begins at 6 Rue Mollien. It ends at 1 Rue Corvetto. Despite its size, it holds layers of history.
Rue Maleville officially opened in 1867. It wasn’t named Rue Maleville until 1883. For a time, the Europe market was located here starting in 1875. This bustling market added to the street’s vibrant atmosphere.
In 1973, the market was replaced. A large office building designed by architect Pierre Dufau now stands at numbers 1-17. This modern structure reflects a different era in the street’s history.
At number 8, a piece of legal history once stood. Here was a private mansion where Charles Demolombe, another jurist, wrote most of the latest edition of his Treatise on Civil Law. His work built upon Maleville’s foundation.
Number 10 holds a creative legacy. In 1912, Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann, a decorator and furniture designer, set up shop here. Ruhlmann’s elegant designs added an artistic flair to Rue Maleville.
Today, Rue Maleville is easily accessible. The Saint-Augustin station on line 9 provides convenient access. As you walk down Rue Maleville, remember Jacques de Maleville. Think about his contribution to the Civil Code. Consider the layers of history beneath your feet. From legal minds to artistic visionaries, this street has stories to tell.