- History and Exploration of Quai de la Tournelle in Paris
- Development and Notable Sites on Quai de la Tournelle
- Taxi shuttle to dock Tournelle in Paris
History and Exploration of Quai de la Tournelle in Paris
Located in the 5th arrondissement, in the Saint-Victor district, the Quai de la Tournelle is a thoroughfare that begins at the Pont de Sully on the Saint-Germain and ends at Rue Maître Albert. This quay stretches over a length of 420 meters and a width of 23 meters. It was established in 1554, replacing the former Saint Bernard. Today, the quay connects two significant streets in the city, namely Rue des Fossés-Saint-Bernard and Rue de Bièvre. Classified as a historical monument, the Quai de la Tournelle is under global protection.
Development and Notable Sites on Quai de la Tournelle
The Quai de la Tournelle is divided into two sections. The first section is bordered by Rue des Fossés-Saint-Bernard and Rue de Pontoise. Its first renovation, on August 12, 1650, saw the quay being paved to a width of 10 yards. Eighty years later, it was determined that the quay should be extended, necessitating the demolition of some houses. The name “Quai de la Tourelle” was adopted in 1750 after the chief architect Jaillot decided on the naming at the time of construction. The second section lies between Rue de Pontoise and Rue de Bièvre, originally named “Miramiones Quay” at its inception. Later, a decree by a prefect merged the two sections on September 3, 1835, officially forming the “Quai de la Tournelle.”
The Tournelle existed until the late 18th century, falling during Henry II’s reign. It had served as a protective measure for river passage through a channel. Due to its apparent decay, King Henry II ordered its re-establishment in 1554. From 1632, Vincent de Paul requested its transformation into a prison, a request that was granted, allowing the Tournelle to serve as a dungeon for criminals for over 120 years. The Porte de Saint-Bernard, located at the rear of the Tournelle, was demolished in 1787, despite being rebuilt and renovated in 1606, and was not reconstructed thereafter.
Among the notable buildings on the quay in 1636 was the Convent of Miramoines, a refuge and educational center for the poor. This convent gave its name to the Quai de la Tournelle, formerly known as Miramoines Quay. The convent and its community were abolished in 1790. The Daughters of St. Genevieve, or Miramoines, vacated the premises, and the building later became the central pharmacy for civilian hospitals and hospices in Paris. Subsequently, it transformed into the Museum of Public Hospitals of Paris. Along the Quai, historic houses such as the “Silver Tower” restaurant at No. 15-17, Hotel President Rolland Barthelemy-Gabriel at No. 37, and Hall No. 47 at Miramion can be observed.
Taxi Shuttle Services to Quai de la Tournelle in Paris
Experience a delightful and hassle-free visit to Paris by traveling in comfort and luxury to the Quai de la Tournelle. This esteemed location is conveniently situated 19 km from Orly Airport, 33 km from Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport, and 89 km from Beauvais Airport when utilizing private taxi services. Ensuring a smooth transition from the airport to the heart of Paris, these taxi shuttle services offer an exemplary mode of transport, embodying both comfort and elegance, tailored specifically for those who seek a seamless and upscale travel experience to one of Paris’s historic quays.