Passage d'Enfer, thoroughfare in Paris, France
Passage d'Enfer is a narrow alley in the 14th arrondissement of Paris that runs between Boulevard Raspail and Rue Campagne-Premiere. The roughly 160-meter-long and 10-meter-wide pathway is paved with stone and closed by gates at both ends, allowing only pedestrians to pass through.
The passage was founded in 1857 by architect Felix Pigeory as part of a project to improve housing for workers. The name comes from an old barrier from the city walls of earlier times that once marked this area.
The name 'Enfer' comes from an old barrier and road from earlier times, not from anything dark. The passage became a place where craftspeople and artists set up workshops and studios in the buildings, creating a community centered on creative work.
The passage is easily reached on foot from Raspail metro station and sits in a quiet residential area. Visitors should look for the discreet entrance at 247 Boulevard Raspail or 21 Rue Campagne-Premiere to find this hidden spot.
Building number 25 was designed in 1911 by architect André Arfvidson with colorful ceramics and glazed bricks by Alexandre Bigot and today serves as an art academy. This artistic tradition of the place is carried on through the Academy 25, which draws artists and art students.
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