Passage Ben-Aïad, Historic covered passage in 2nd arrondissement of Paris, France
Passage Ben-Aïad runs about 90 meters from Rue Léopold-Bellan to Rue Bachaumont and measures just 3 meters wide. A glass canopy covers the walkway while decorative wall elements line the narrow corridor.
This passage is the last remaining section of Passage du Saumon, which was built in 1826. The original project was largely torn down at the century's end, but this part survived.
The passage takes its name from a Tunisian general who bought the property in 1853 and shaped the space. The wall decorations reflect the commercial design style of 19th-century Paris.
Access is currently limited by metal gates, as this is a private road not freely open to the public. Visitors can view the interior through the iron bars near Les Halles.
The passage received official status as a protected historical monument in 1997, making it a rare survivor from this era of Parisian design. This protection sets it apart from countless similar structures that did not endure.
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