Passage des Princes, the last covered gallery built in Paris
The Passage des Princes, one of the 30 or so iconic covered galeries in Paris still standing, is a precious testament to 19th-century Parisian architectural heritage.
Connecting No. 5 Boulevard des Italiens to No. 97 Rue de Richelieu, it is located near other famous passages such as the Passage des Panoramas, the Passage Verdeau and the PassageJouffroy, all nestled along the Grands Boulevards.
Inaugurated in 1860, just before the start of Baron Haussmann‘s major urban renewal projects in Paris, the Passage des Princes was the last covered built in Paris and embodies an era of elegance and refinement that is now bygone.
The banker Jules Mirès acquired the Grand Hôtel des Princes et de l’Europe, at No. 97 Rue de Richelieu, to create a passage in the gardens to connect his hotel to his bank, at No. 7 Boulevard des Italiens.
Thanks to its architectural majesty and prestigious clientele, the Passage des Princes quickly acquired a reputation as one of the most refined and upscale covered galleries in Paris.
Rebuilt to the identical and today a haven for video games enthusiasts
However, Mirès’ original covered shopping arcade disappeared in 1985, demolished to make way for contemporary buildings along the Boulevard des Italiens.
Nevertheless, the passageway has been meticulously reconstructed to meticulous detail, preserving its timeless atmosphere and old-world charm.
While the entrance on the Boulevard des Italiens now boasts a decidedly modern look, the original entrance on Rue de Richelieu and the building it passes through remain intact and are still separated by an interior courtyard.
The architects in charge of the renovation indeed wisely chose to preserve the impressive Art Deco stained-glass dome, adorned with yellow and pink roses on a yellow background, created in the 1930s.
Today, the passageway is not just a convenient shortcut between the Grands Boulevards and Rue de Richelieu.
It has also become a favourite spot for gaming enthusiasts, housing a multitude of shops specialising in games, video games, and model kits.
The Passage des Princes is a must-see destination for all ages.
Entry is free, and the arcade is open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. It is closed on Sundays.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; closed on Sundays.
Directions: 9th district – no5 Boulevard des Italiens – no97 Rue de Richelieu.
Metro station: Richelieu-Drouot on Lines 8,9
Coordinates: Lat 48.871725 – Long 2.339196
