History and authentic discovery with Rue des Poitevins in Paris

History and visit rue des Poitevins in Paris

The street Poitevins is a significant part of the 6th arrondissement of Paris, situated in the Mint neighborhood. Starting at No. 6 rue Hautefeuille and ending at No. 5 rue Danton, the street measures a modest 50 meters in length and varies in width from 6 to 10 meters. Constructed in the 13th century, the street was officially named “Poitevins” in 1425. It is accessible by lines M, 4, 10 Odéon and the RATP bus lines 62 and 86, making it well-connected for residents and tourists alike.

Historically, the street has had several names. Records from 1253 reveal that the street was initially named “Poitevins Gui-le-Street,” later changing to “Queux-le-Street Guy Cooks of Poitou.” Additional documentation indicates that in 1356, it was called “Rue Poitou-to-Guiard.” Eventually, in 1425, it received its current name, street of Poitou.

Interestingly, the portion of the street Poitevins that ends at No. 5 rue Danton was once known as “street beater.” In the 15th century, this connecting street was named “Pet Street,” later evolving into “Rue du Petit-Pet” in the 16th century and “rue du Gros-Pet” in the 17th century. The width of 6 meters was officially designated by a ministerial decision signed by Francis Neufchâteau on 23 Prairial VII.

Notable Monuments on Street Poitevins
Street Poitevins is not just an average street; it is a living archive of Parisian history. Tourists can discover several fascinating monuments along this compact street. For example, the newspaper “Le Mercure de France” was printed at the Hotel de Thou on this street back in 1781. The former Office of the Monitor, the Contiguous House, and the Hospice of the Parish are other noteworthy sites. Additionally, Saint-André-des-Arts, an age-old sanctuary, enhances the historic charm of the street, making it a hidden gem worth exploring for both tourists and locals.