“Skunk” seems an odd name. Why would anyone name a street “Skunk”? The name Rue Mouffetard might seem a bit strange at first. But its history is as rich and pungent as some of the cheeses you will find here. Rue Mouffetard is one of the oldest streets in Paris. Some Parisians affectionately call it “la Mouffe”.
This street has been around since the Romans. That is nearly 2000 years. It began as part of a Roman road connecting Paris to Lyon. Over time, the name evolved. It went from “mont Cetardus” to Mouffetard.
Now about that skunk reference. “Mouffetard” may come from the medieval French word “mofettes”. This means foul or pestilent odors. During the Middle Ages, the Bièvre River flowed through Rue Mouffetard. Tanners and dyers dumped waste into the river. The stench was terrible. So, the street became known for its unpleasant smell. Fortunately, those days are long gone. The Bièvre is now underground. Rue Mouffetard smells much better.
Today, Rue Mouffetard is a lively street. It is loved by locals and tourists. It has a daily market with fresh produce. Shops offer a feast for the senses. Pastries, cheeses, and restaurant smells fill the air.
You can sit on a terrace at Place de la Contrescarpe. Enjoy a café au lait. Watch people. Admire the old houses. Imagine Parisian life during the medieval years. It is very authentic.
Victor Hugo drew inspiration from this street. He captured its atmosphere in Les Misérables. Look up and down. Some buildings have amazing frescoes and sculptures.
At the junction of Rue du Pot, you will find a water well dated 1624. Further south, admire Église St. Médard. It dates back to the 9th century. The Monge market is near the Place Monge metro stop. Visit it on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Locals gather to dance and sing by the Chapel of Saint-Médard on Sunday afternoons.
Rue Mouffetard escaped Baron Haussmann’s redevelopment plans. This helped preserve its old style. In 1938, workers found a treasure. They discovered over 3,300 gold coins dating from the reign of Louis XV. The coins were hidden in a building at number 51. Louis Nivelle, the King’s secretary, hid them. He wanted to provide for his daughter. The treasure was later shared between the city, workers, and Nivelle’s descendants.
Many historical buildings line Rue Mouffetard. Number 6 has an 18th-century butcher shop. It features a red facade and carvings of oxen. The Fontaine du Pot au Fer at number 60 dates back to 1624. Marie de Medicis commissioned it. It supplied water to the Luxembourg Palace.
Rue Mouffetard has changed over the years. Yet, it retains its picturesque charm. The street is filled with shops. Artisans and food vendors create a warm atmosphere. The market and small businesses make it a popular destination.
Today, people come to Rue Mouffetard. They visit bakeries, wine shops, and grocers. They relax with a drink or a meal on a terrace. Rue Mouffetard is more than just a street. It’s a journey through Parisian history. It’s a feast for the senses. It’s a place where the past and present blend seamlessly.