Green Passage

The Passage Verdeau, located in the heart of the 9th arrondissement of Paris, is one of the most fascinating covered passages in the city, rich in history and unique character. Inaugurated in 1847, the passage takes its name from its builder, Monsieur Verdeau, who conceived it as an extension of the nearby Passage Jouffroy and Passage des Panoramas. These covered passages, developed during the mid-19th century, represented an urban innovation, offering Parisians a protected place to stroll and shop sheltered from the weather. The architecture of Passage Verdeau is particularly notable for its brightness and the elegance of its details. The glass ceiling allows natural light to flood the space, creating a welcoming and refined atmosphere. The walls are adorned with sophisticated moldings, while the mosaic floor adds a touch of class and historicity. This elegant environment evokes the charm of 19th century Paris, offering visitors a unique and evocative experience. Since its opening, Passage Verdeau has been a reference point for those seeking unique and high-quality products. Today, the passage is home to a variety of shops selling antiques, rare books, vintage photographs, and musical instruments. These specialized shops attract collectors and art enthusiasts, who find hidden treasures and objects of great historical and cultural value. Among the main attractions of Passage Verdeau is the “Librairie Farfouille,” famous for its extensive collection of antique and out-of-print books. This bookstore is a paradise for bibliophiles, with shelves reaching up to the ceiling, filled with literary, historical, and artistic works. Every corner of the bookstore invites discovery, offering a journey through the history of literature and human knowledge. Another emblematic shop in the passage is “Photographica,” a boutique specializing in vintage photographs and antique cameras. Here, visitors can find rare photographic prints, daguerreotypes, and historic photographic equipment, which tell the evolution of photography from its beginnings to the present day. This shop is a must-visit for photography enthusiasts and anyone interested in visual history. Passage Verdeau also houses “Au Bonheur des Dames,” an antique shop offering a wide range of art objects, vintage furniture, and curiosities. This boutique is a true treasure trove, where each object has a story to tell and contributes to creating an atmosphere of wonder and discovery. Equally fascinating is “Le Monde du Voyage,” a shop dedicated to travel enthusiasts and adventurers. Here, visitors can find antique maps, globes, and navigation instruments, evoking the era of great explorations and adventurous journeys. This shop is the ideal place for those who dream of exploring the world or simply want to bring home a piece of history. The history of Passage Verdeau is steeped in anecdotes and curiosities. During the Belle Époque, the passage was a meeting place for artists, writers, and intellectuals, who gathered to discuss art, literature, and politics. This bohemian spirit is still palpable today, with its shops continuing to celebrate creativity and culture. The passage has undergone several restorations over the years to preserve its beauty and architectural integrity. In 1997, on the occasion of its 150th anniversary, Passage Verdeau was completely restored, with particular attention to the preservation of the original details. This restoration has helped to maintain the historical charm of the passage, making it a perfect example of how the past can harmoniously coexist with the present.