Private shuttle transport from grand and petit Châtelet to Paris airports

Delving into the history and exploring the large and small Châtelet in Paris

The large and small Châtelet are historical structures located at the termini of the bridges that link the island of the City of Paris with the banks of the Seine. These architectural landmarks have been a part of Parisian landscape since the 9th century. Originally built of wood, these structures were subsequently fortified and replaced with stone to ensure their resilience. The Grand Chatelet served the purpose of protecting the entrance to the grand bridge deck, which currently leads to the northern part of the exchange. In contrast, the Petit Chatelet guarded the southern bridge entrance.

The Châtelet, a small door topped by a building flanked by two defensive towers, was initially built of wood. However, around 1130, under the orders of Louis VI, it was fortified with stone. Following the overflow of the Seine on December 20, 1296, the bridge and the small gatehouse were destroyed, only to be rebuilt during the reign of Charles V.

Over time, the Petit Chatelet was converted into a state prison, while the small gatehouse underwent remodeling under Hugh Aubriot. At the command of Charles VI, it was transformed into a residence for prison guards. The Grand Chatelet, situated at the current Place du Chatelet, was amongst the most spectacular structures of Saint-Jacques de la Boucherie, serving as a protective fort while overseeing activities within and outside the city.

This fortress was also the site of justice and housed a prison. After the infamous hanging at Montfaucon, the Grand Chatelet towered over the grim cityscape of Paris. Over time, the appearance and the surroundings of the building came to be associated with some of the more unpleasant aspects of the French capital’s history.