Arts et métiers

Your search results

Discover the Arts et Métiers district - Paris 03

You have to go to the 3rd arrondissement to reach the 9th administrative district of Paris. This 31-hectare neighbourhood is wedged between the neighbourhoods of Sainte-Avoye and Enfants Rouges, as well as the 10th and 2nd arrondissements.

It is quite easy to locate its border, which starts at Boulevard Sébastopol, to the west. At the intersection with Boulevard Saint-Denis to the north, follow it to Place de la République, then go down Rue du Temple. Finally, its southern border is composed by Rue des Gravilliers and Rue de Turbigo.

History

The name “Arts et Métiers” comes from the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers (National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts), which is part of the Écoles de l’An III Scientifique, along with the Ecole Normale Supérieure and École Polytechnique. Founded in 1794, this “Grand Établissement” is aimed at training engineers, carrying out technological research and promoting technical and scientific culture.

It is also important to note that great part of the neighbourhood corresponds to the northern part of the domain of Saint-Martin-des-Champs abbey, whose urbanisation during the 13th century allowed the foundation of Bourg Saint-Martin-des-Champs.
Moreover, this neighbourhood is also known to be the oldest Chinatown in Paris, with the first Chinese presence dating back to the Second World War. After the deportation of Jews, many Chinese put the empty workshops back to business in the Marais.

Nowadays, the Wenzhou form most of the neighbourhood, where they managed to create a strong community. When visiting this district, you will notice a particular atmosphere, which becomes more striking during the Chinese New Year. All of this ignites a rivalry with the 13th arrondissement, due to the latter being home to a large Asian (not just Chinese) population.

Cultural sites

Saint-Nicolas des Champs Church: built in 1420, it displays numerous works of art as well as a magnificent organ case.

Local landmarks

We are not talking about the richest neighbourhood in Paris in terms of landmarks. Yet, it is worth a stroll. If you desire a change of scenery, your wish will be granted once at Rue au Maire. There, you can find many textile workshops and restaurants where you can enjoy typical Chinese food.

Nevertheless, here are some interesting places to discover:
Square du Général Morin: mainly its sculptures.

Gaîté Lyrique: first named Théâtre de la Foire at its beginnings in 1759, Jean-Baptiste Nicolet and his company renamed it Théâtre de la Gaîté. In 1795, its name changed again to Théâtre d’Émulation, before reverting back to its previous one. It is also at this time that the theatre was rebuilt and expanded. Dedicated to melodrama at its beginnings, it was not until 1873 that it was devoted to lyric art. After a few closures and renovations, it hosts nowadays numerous exhibitions.

Parks

Square Emile-Chautemps: access via metro line 3 (Réaumur-Sébastopol) and bus lines 20 and 39 (Réaumur-Sébastopol stations).

Schools

Montessori School: 3, Rue Papin, 75003 Paris.
Access via metro line 3 (Réaumur-Sébastopol) and bus lines 20 and 39 (Réaumur-Sébastopol stations).
Vaucanson Elementary School: 6, Rue Vaucanson, 75003 Paris.
Access via metro line 3 (Arts et Métiers) and bus line 20 (Réaumur-Arts et Métiers station).
Montgolfier Middle School: 15, Rue Montgolfier, 75003 Paris.
Access via metro line 3 (Arts et Métiers) and bus line 20 (Réaumur-Arts et Métiers station).