Covered passageways of Paris are covered pedestrian streets. They are a series of pedestrian streets built between the end of the 18th century (just after the Révolution) and the early years of the Second Empire (1860). They run through blocks or buildings and are sheltered by a structure that is often glazed. They are generally lined with stores, and foreshadow contemporary department stores and shopping arcades.
They are called galleries, passages, totally or partilly covered, often with stores and cafés. These passages, often luxurious and equipped with glass canopies, enabled Parisians to stroll and shop sheltered from the elements. They bear witness to Parisian urban planning and lifestyle of the period.
The covered passageways: a journey back to the 19th century
Paris’s covered passageways are true hidden gems of the French capital. They offer a journey back in time to the heart of the bustling city. These historic galleries, dating back to the 19th century, are imbued with a unique atmosphere, blending the elegance of yesteryear with Parisian modernity:
- Canopies: Protect visitors from the elements while providing natural light.
- Stores: Luxury stores, bookshops, tea rooms, jewelry shops and art galleries.
- Decorations: Mosaics, columns, ironwork and sculptures often adorn these spaces.
Almost all the covered passageways are located on the right bank of the Seine, within the limits of Paris before its 1860 extension, mainly near the Grands Boulevards, in the areas that attracted the wealthy clientele at the time of their construction.
Origin and history
They were mostly built in the first half of the 19th century, to shelter wealthy customers from the elements. They generally offered a variety of shops so that customers could do all their shopping at once. In this sense, they were the forerunners of department stores.
By the 1850s, Paris had as many as thirty covered passageways, and the model was exported to several other cities in France and abroad.
Haussmann’s work to open up the city’s neighborhoods by creating wide avenues, and competition from department stores, led to the disappearance of most of these passages.
The unique construction of Parisian covered passageways
Typically, Parisian covered passageways are galleries cut through pre-existing buildings or at the same time as them. These galleries are covered by a glass roof that provides zenithal lighting, giving them a special glow. These canopies were made possible by the use of puddled iron, which a few years later would be used to build the Eiffel Tower.
Décline and renaissance
Decline: With the advent of the Grand Boulevards and department stores (such as Printemps or Galeries Lafayette), passages lost their popularity.
Renaissance: Since the end of the XXᵉ century, they have enjoyed a resurgence of interest thanks to their historic charm and unique character.
What remains today: a historical heritage
Paris has many covered passageways, each with its own character and captivating history. Among them, the “Passage des Panoramas” stands out as the city’s oldest covered passageway, inaugurated in 1800. Originally built to house panoramas, popular visual attractions at the time, it now attracts visitors with its charming boutiques and picturesque restaurants. The “Galerie Vivienne”, adorned with mosaics, statues and stained glass, is a true 19th-century architectural masterpiece, offering a unique shopping experience in an elegant setting.
Why visit them today? An enchanted stroll through modern Paris
Strolling through these covered passages is an enchanting experience. The galleries offer a peaceful refuge from the hustle and bustle of Parisian streets, with their elaborate architecture, mosaic floors and retro signs. Independent boutiques, antique bookshops and cosy cafés all contribute to creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere:
- Unique atmosphere: A mix of shopping, gastronomy and history. These passages are hidden treasures that bear witness to Paris’ rich past and are perfect places for a stroll off the beaten track.
- Architectural heritage: The covered passageways are architectural gems and offer a journey back in time.
- Diversity: Original boutiques, art galleries, rare bookstores and restaurants.
Emblematic passages
Here are 19 of Paris’s most remarkable covered passageways, with their location in Paris so you can find them easily.
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