Private car pick up from Roissy Charles de Gaulle to rue des Francs-Bourgeois in Paris

History and exploration of rue des Francs-Bourgeois in Paris

The rue des Francs-Bourgeois is a notable street situated in Paris’ 4th district. Measuring 705 m in length and ranging between 8-13 m in width, it originates from the esteemed Place des Vosges and culminates at the rue des Archives. Remarkably, this thoroughfare delineates the boundary between the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, from the rue de Turenne to the rue des Archives. Even-numbered buildings are located within the 3rd arrondissement, while the odd-numbered ones belong to the 4th.

Historically, this ancient street, known to be among the oldest in Paris, was once christened “rue des Vieilles Pulleys” or “Pulleys”, in tribute to Richard Weavers of Pulleys and Ferri. Its inception dates back to the 13th century. In 1334, charitable homes were constructed here. The inhabitants of these homes earned the title “Francs-Bourgeois”, as they were taxed based on their modest income. A prominent building, the “House des Francs-Bourgeois”, was named so because it provided care for the impoverished bourgeoisie. The entire street eventually adopted the moniker “rue des Francs-Bourgeois” in honor of this house. However, between 1789 and 1799, it was briefly renamed “rue des Francs citizens”.

Today, rue des Francs-Bourgeois is renowned for its exquisite hotels and significant buildings. Notable among them is the Hotel Sandreville at No. 26, and the historic Hotel Albret, which is situated between No. 29 bis and 31. Constructed in 1550, the latter was renamed Hotel de Rambouillet between 1650 and 1670 and was famously inhabited by Madame de Maintenon. In the late 18th century, it was utilized as a workshop for chandelier manufacturing. Nowadays, it accommodates the department of cultural affairs in Paris. Other landmarks include the Alméras Hotel at No. 30, built by Louis J. Métezeau and Androuet du Cerceau during the sixteenth century, and the notable Hérouet Hotel at No. 44. Lastly, the Interdepartmental Service archives are headquartered in the Hotel Jaucourt at No. 54.