“Rue de Rivoli? Never heard of it.” Can you imagine saying that in Paris? Rue Nexon may not be as famous, but every street has a story.
Rue de Rivoli, a famous commercial street in central Paris, is known for its fashionable brands. Napoleon named it after his victory at the Battle of Rivoli in 1797. He wanted to commemorate his triumph over the Austrian army. He also bestowed the title of “Duke of Rivoli” upon Marshal Masséna, to whom he owed this victory.
Napoleon developed Rue de Rivoli through the heart of Paris. The street includes the north wing of the Louvre Palace and the Tuileries Gardens on one side. This was the first time a wide and well-designed street bounded the Louvre Palace. Builders followed a single facade plan creating a uniform look. The arcades and facades extend for almost a mile along the street.
King Charles X and King Louis-Philippe continued the street eastward from the Louvre. Emperor Napoleon III extended it into Le Marais. Beneath Rue de Rivoli runs one of Paris’s main sewers.
In 1852, Baron Haussmann enlarged the Place du Palais-Royal, opposite the Louvre. The Palais Royal was built for Cardinal Richelieu in 1624. North of Rue de Rivoli, the Opera Garnier was built. The Galeries Lafayette and Printemps department stores are behind the opera house.
East along Rue de Rivoli, a gilded statue of Joan of Arc stands at the Place des Pyramides. A plaque at number 144 commemorates the assassination of Admiral Gaspard II de Coligny. This happened during the St. Bartholomew’s Day massacre in 1572.
The opening of Rue de Rivoli led to the disappearance of 70 lanes, squares, and gardens. Some had funny names like “cul-de-sac du Dauphin.” Today, it extends over 3 kilometers and crosses 54 streets.
Famous writers once lived on Rue de Rivoli. These included Eugène Ionesco, Joseph Kessel, and Chateaubriand. Today, artists occupy the 59Rivoli squat. A magnificent statue honoring Admiral de Coligny stands at number 160. However, the inscribed date of birth is incorrect.
Rue de Rivoli is more than just a street. It is a testament to Parisian history, architecture, and culture. From Napoleon’s vision to modern-day attractions, it embodies the spirit of Paris.