- History and Visit of the Cour du Commerce Saint-André in Paris
- Historical Treasures of the Cour du Commerce Saint-André in Paris
- Transfer to the Cour du Commerce Saint-André in Paris
History and Visit of the Cour du Commerce Saint-André in Paris
Located between 59, rue Saint-André-des-Arts and 21, rue de l’Ancienne-Comédie as well as 130, boulevard Saint-Germain, the Cour du Commerce Saint-André crosses the Monnaies district in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. This public passage, 120 meters long and 3.5 meters wide, was created in 1776. Originally named cour de commerce, it adopted its current name on March 16, 1877. Accessible through three entrances located on rue de l’Ancienne-Comédie, rue Saint-André des Arts, and boulevard Saint-Germain, it is a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Built on the site of former moats bordering the walls erected by Philippe Auguste between 1190 and 1220, this courtyard has witnessed numerous historical events. The guillotine was conceived by the carpenter Schmidt at number 9, and Marat’s newspaper, L’Ami du Peuple, was printed at number 8. The lawyer and revolutionary leader Georges Jacques Danton lived here from 1789. A statue in his honor stands at Place de l’Odéon, marking the site’s revolutionary significance.
Once built on former jeu de paume courts, the courtyard was designed to link rue de l’Ancienne-Comédie with rue Saint-André des Arts. Over time, it evolved into a lively commercial hub in the 18th century, still showcasing elements of medieval Paris like the tower at number 4. In 1987, several parts of the courtyard, including roofs, facades, glassworks, and its entrances, were classified as historical monuments.
Today, the Cour du Commerce Saint-André is a fascinating relic of both medieval and revolutionary Paris. Easily reachable via Odéon metro station and RATP bus lines 63, 86, and 87, it continues to charm visitors with its historical significance and shops. To enhance your Paris visit, consider the best Paris shuttle service for a comfortable and informative transfer.
Historical Treasures of the Cour du Commerce Saint-André in Paris
The Cour du Commerce Saint-André stands out for its remnants of buildings dating back to the reign of Philippe Auguste. This emblematic site is home to charming establishments that have retained their historical significance while maintaining a strong commercial and gastronomic appeal throughout the centuries. Among its most treasured jewels is the oldest café in Paris, Le Procope, founded in 1684 by the Italian Francesco Procopio Dei Coltelli. This legendary café was a meeting place for prominent figures such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Diderot. Other famous establishments, including the Relais Odéon brewery and the 1900 bistro, add to the rich culinary tradition of this courtyard.
The main entrance to the Cour du Commerce Saint-André, situated on Boulevard Saint-Germain, is adorned with an elegant arch featuring intricate sculptures. At the top of this arch, the inscription “Cour du Commerce Saint-André” is proudly displayed. Statues on either side of the arch act as columns, enhancing the grandeur of the passage, which leads visitors to further explore the Cour de Rohan, extending the discovery of this historic area of Paris. For a convenient journey to this iconic location, consider checking the taxi fare to Charles de Gaulle.
Transfer to the Cour du Commerce Saint-André in Paris
When departing from Paris airports towards the Cour du Commerce Saint-André, you have several options depending on your arrival airport. Orly is 18.2 km away, while Charles de Gaulle is 31.4 km and Beauvais is 88.8 km from the Cour. For a smooth and comfortable journey, many travelers opt for private car transfers, which provide a direct and hassle-free way to reach this iconic site in the heart of Paris. This option allows visitors to begin their exploration of Paris’s rich history, starting with the Cour du Commerce, without the complexities of public transport.
For those considering transportation from Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly to a hotel in Paris, private transfers like CDG airport transfers or Orly airport transfers offer a convenient solution. For a more cultural experience, a transfer to Paris monuments provides a direct route from the airport to the city’s main attractions, combining cost-effectiveness with comfort.