Cour du Commerce-Saint-André, Historic covered passage in 6th arrondissement, France.
Cour du Commerce-Saint-André is a covered passage stretching roughly 120 meters long and 3.5 meters wide, connecting Rue Saint-André-des-Arts to Boulevard Saint-Germain. Multiple restaurants and shops line both sides of the passage, fitting snugly within the confined space.
Built in 1776, this passage became a location of intellectual and political activity relatively quickly after its creation. It served as a venue for significant developments during the French Revolution that shaped the quarter's history.
The name references Saint Andrew and the commerce that once thrived in this quarter. Today visitors can observe how the narrow passage draws people to linger over meals and drinks within its confined, enclosed setting.
The passage is easily accessible on foot from either end and provides shelter from rain and weather. Visitors should explore the space best during daytime hours when shops and restaurants are open.
A craftsman named Tobias Schmidt tested prototypes of a machine that would become a symbol of the revolution at number 9. Traces of these experiments remained visible in the passage's floor for many years.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
