Covered passages: one of the many hidden charms of Paris
Categories : Fashion and Shopping, published on : 1/2/24
You’re familiar, of course, with the iconic monuments, romantic walks in the parks or along the quays, and the magnificent views from the steps of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica or the top of the Eiffel Tower. You’ve probably also succumbed to the charms of the cobbled streets of Montmartre, discovered the treasures of the Marais and admired the facades of the Haussmann-era buildings. But have you explored the covered passages of Paris? If not, make it part of your itinerary during your stay at the Hôtel Les Plumes.
An architectural feature
Built, for the most part, during the restructuring of Paris by Baron Haussmann in the second half of the 19th century, the city’s covered passages are glass-roofed shopping arcades that shelter their visitors from the rain and chill. Their large, metal-framed glass roofs were the height of architectural technology back in the day. However, each passage has its own special architectural details, pavements, sculptures, mosaics, etc. It’s all there for you to admire as you browse.
The timeless appeal of the covered passages
The covered passages house shops and cafes, restaurants and workshops. The Passage Verdeau, a few minutes’ walk from the Hôtel Les Plumes, hosts many antique dealers who take advantage of the proximity of the Hôtel Drouot auction house. A little further on, the Passage des Panoramas enchants with its historic signs, its shops for philatelists and its cabinets of curiosities. Finally, the Passage du Grand Cerf, with its impressive glass roof perched 12 metres high, invites you to stroll among the artisan shops to find unique pieces of jewellery, furniture, design, decoration, and more.
Each of the covered passages, from the oldest to those most characteristic of the Haussmann era, has its own personality. Come and discover them as a couple on the occasion of Valentine’s Day by taking advantage of the special offer of the Hôtel Les Plumes. See our website for details!
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The list of all covered passages in Paris here
Photo : cdrcom
Les Plumes Hotel, a 4-star hotel both chic and fun at the heart of Paris
