“Saint-Léonard, meet me at the corner. I have a story to tell you.” That’s what the stones of Rue Saint-Léonard might say if they could talk. This street located in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés whispers tales of yesteryears. But how often do we stop to wonder about the stories behind these names?
The story of Rue Saint-Léonard stretches back through the centuries. It dates back to Roman times. The Romans conquered Paris in 52 BC. Before the Romans, a group of Celtics were the first to settle in Paris. Way back in 8000 BC, a group of hunters and gatherers lived in Paris. Fast forward to 250 BC and you’ll find a group of Celtics living in what is now Paris.
The Romans were so proud of their new trading post in Lutetia. They erected a pillar dedicated to the seamen and tradesmen in the settlement. It was called the pilier des nautes. The pilar of the boatsmen was built by a group of sailors and merchants. It was dedicated to the Roman emperor Tiberius.
Imagine a time traveler visiting Rue Saint-Léonard during the Roman era. They would see how Lutetia wasn’t very big. The Paris that we know today is one of the world’s major cities. In the Roman Empire, the population was between 8000 and 10000.
The Roman city planners laid the first two parallel roads in Paris called cardos. One went north towards the Seine. Another connected the center island. This made trade easier. Other streets then led to the baths and theatre.
The Romans built baths and an amphitheater. The baths in Lutetia were thermal baths. Even in winter, Lutetians could bathe without worry. The Arènes de Lutèce was the center of activity. It could house up to 15000 people. You can still visit the remains of the baths and the amphitheater today.
The Roman Empire was impressive. Their use of aqueducts was something they were known for. The aqueducts in Lutetia provided the city with fresh spring water. It was safe for drinking and cooking. It also helped to grow crops.
The Roman wall protected Lutetia from invaders. Sections still remain in Paris. You can see traces of the wall on the street. There is also a small plaque commemorating the wall.
The Romans martyred Paris’s first bishop. Saint Denis was martyred by the Romans in 250 AD. He walked the streets of Paris with his head in his hands. The Romans hated Christianity. They supposedly martyred Saint Denis on Montmartre.
After the fall of the Roman Empire in the 3rd century, the city was Christianized. Clovis I King of the Franks made Paris his capital in 508.
Rue Saint-Léonard connects us to the past. This street saw Paris evolve from a small Celtic settlement to a vital Roman city. The echoes of Lutetia still resonate. So next time you stroll down Rue Saint-Léonard, remember the story beneath your feet.