Place des Abbesses

The Place des Abbesses, in the heart of Montmartre, is one of the most charming squares in Paris, perfectly reflecting the bohemian and historical atmosphere of the neighborhood. It takes its name from the abbesses of the ancient abbey of Montmartre, founded in the 12th century. This connection to the religious past is evident in the names of the streets and surrounding places, despite the abbey being closed and demolished during the French Revolution, with the church of Saint-Pierre de Montmartre as the only remaining testimony. One of the most iconic elements of the Place des Abbesses is the entrance to the metro station, designed by Hector Guimard in Art Nouveau style. This structure with elegant curved lines and floral decorations is one of the few remaining examples of the original entrances of the Parisian metro from the early 20th century. The station, inaugurated in 1913, is the deepest in the Paris metro network, located 36 meters underground. The murals inside the station, depicting scenes of Montmartre, add an artistic touch and prepare visitors for the unique atmosphere of the area. The square is a lively meeting point for residents and tourists, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops that bring the neighborhood to life. Here, the inhabitants of Montmartre and visitors mingle, creating a festive and community atmosphere. The outdoor markets, frequent in the square, attract numerous visitors looking for fresh and artisanal products, keeping the tradition of local commerce alive. Not far from the square, in the garden of Square Jehan Rictus, is the famous “Wall of Love” (Le Mur des Je t’aime). Created by artists Frédéric Baron and Claire Kito, this mural is made up of glazed lava tiles on which the words “I love you” are written in over 250 languages. The Wall of Love has become a symbol of universal love and one of the most romantic attractions in Paris. The Place des Abbesses is also the ideal starting point for exploring Montmartre, one of the most historic and artistic neighborhoods in Paris. A short walk from the square are iconic places like the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, a white basilica that dominates the hill and offers a panoramic view of the city, and Place du Tertre, famous for its street artists and portraitists. Montmartre has a long artistic tradition, being the center of Parisian bohemian life in the 19th and 20th centuries, with artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, and Toulouse-Lautrec frequenting the cafes and cabarets of the area. The church of Saint-Jean de Montmartre, located right on the square, is a rare example of Art Nouveau architecture applied to a religious building. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, the church features a facade of bricks and tiles with wrought iron decorations, offering an interesting contrast with the surrounding structures. A curious anecdote concerns the Hotel Particulier Montmartre, located near the square. This elegant hotel has hosted numerous artists and celebrities over the years, helping to strengthen Montmartre’s reputation as a cultural and artistic center. The Hotel Particulier is known for its hidden garden, an oasis of tranquility in the heart of one of the liveliest neighborhoods in Paris.