Private Shuttle transport from Quai de la Mégisserie to Orly airport

Exploring the history and visiting the Quai de la Méssagérie in Paris

Quai de la Méssagérie, nestled in Paris’ 4th arrondissement, is situated on the right bank of the illustrious Seine. It commences at the Place du Chatelet and the Pont-au-Change, terminating at Pont-Neuf. With a significant length of 338 meters, it was constructed in the year 1369 during the reign of Charles V. The dock earned the name of Saunerie due to its proximity to the salt cellar and underwent major reconstruction in 1529. Major renovations have marked its history, with the dock’s past glory inscribed by Sauval still visible.

The eastern section of the dock was formerly known as the Valley of Misery or Poulaillerie. The western segment earned the title of Mégisserie, as it became a settlement for tanners until 1673, a period when it was connected to the Faubourg Saint-Marceau. The dock underwent significant expansion in April 1769 and later received a new name — the Scrap — due to the presence of scrap vendors lining the parapet. From 1833 to 1835, it saw the construction of a new baluster wall, significantly increasing the aisle’s width.

Under the reign of the Duke of Orleans and Louis XV, the dock exhibited a unique charm. Shipping Masters were the movers of people in those times, a trade, though deplorable, supported by the law. They used a melodious, charming method to attract the attention of young people. These Shipping Masters operated from canvas counters.

Throughout the day, a crowd of onlookers would gather around the Shipping Masters. Conversations flowed, usually around a barrel inscribed with ‘Arbois wine.’ The outdoor gathering was typically composed of curious, ignorant youth, debauched student loafers, and prostitutes, all paid for by the recruiters.