The Louvre, Notre-Dame, Montmartre, the Champs-Élysées; okay, you think you know Paris well. But today, we bring to your attention an unusual place you might not have heard about; the Petite Ceinture (Little Belt). It’s a world apart and constantly evolving.
Let's start with a quick explanation. The route of the old disused railway line that once ran for over 32 km inside the Boulevards des Maréchaux, connecting various railway termini of Paris, is called the Petite Ceinture. Sometimes at street level, sometimes below, sometimes running through tunnels, the line was abandoned and neglected following its closure.
©Maison Mère - Petite Ceinture
Today, however, sections of the route have been reclaimed and rehabilitated oweverHby the inhabitants of adjacent neighbourhoods, becoming street art galleries and communal gardens, walkways, cycle paths and parks. Other stretches are hidden, reclaimed by nature and teeming with all manner of flora and fauna, but it all offers a fascinating experience for the urban adventurer.
Each year, new projects are born along the Petite Ceinture, including some devoted to the protection of its wildlife. You can explore nature trails in the 12th and 16th arrondissements, enjoy the planted promenade that is the pride of the 15th, admire the shared gardens of the 14th and 18th and have a drink in the super friendly and trendy restaurant of the Hasard Ludique hybrid cultural space, a revamped railway station overlooking the Petite Ceinture and its street art. By bike or on foot, set off to discover an unexpected biodiversity and a slice of Parisian transport history.
©Maison Mère - Petite Ceinture
Paris is reinventing itself and reclaiming an unusual heritage of incredible wealth. The Petite Ceinture, well off the beaten tourist track, is one of the secret spaces of Paris, offering an unusual and fascinating experience to those who choose to explore its mysteries.
Crédit photo 2 : © Myrabella - Wikimedia Commons
Crédit photo 3 : © Traktorminze - Wikimedia Commons
