“A Parisian secret” whispers the wind. Welcome to Rue Raymond Queneau. This unassuming street in the 18th arrondissement holds more than meets the eye. It’s named after the famous French writer Raymond Queneau who lived from 1903 to 1976. Its proximity to the similarly named Impasse Raymond-Queneau explains the street’s namesake.
Before its current form Rue Raymond Queneau was quite different. Until the 1970s railway lines ran here. These lines connected the roundabout of La Chapelle to the Chapelle-Charbon station. Trains from northern France used this route. Even the legendary Malle des Indes a train carrying goods from India passed through in 1882.
The street’s creation is part of a larger urban renewal project. The ZAC Evangile project transformed this area. Rue Raymond Queneau was initially known as “voie AN/18”. It received its current name through a municipal decree.
But the street’s story is not just about trains and urban planning. It’s a place of faith and community. Since 1988 the Congregation of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit has had a community here. This community is part of the Saint-Denys de la Chapelle parish.
Number 22 holds another surprise a square also named Raymond-Queneau. And beneath the surface even more secrets hide. A three-thousand five-hundred-square-meter underground farm called “La Caverne” grows mushrooms endives and microgreens. You can find this remarkable farm in an underground parking lot. It lies opposite numbers 24-26 in the Tour Boucry.
Rue Raymond Queneau is more than a simple street. It’s a timeline a testament to change. It’s a blend of history faith and innovation. It’s a true Parisian gem. A quiet observer of the city’s relentless rhythm. Next time you’re in the 18th arrondissement take a moment to explore. You might just discover a new perspective.